The Sudanese Police… A Trusted Institution

Brigadier (Ret.) Omar Mohamed Osman
Yesterday, journalist Iyad Hisham (of Africa Intelligence) posted what he described as an exclusive report:
“Multiple sources confirm that the new Saudi–American proposal contains no political track. It is limited to a three-month truce, with the withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces from cities and their replacement by Sudanese police units under temporary UN supervision.”
It is said that this proposal has been submitted to the Chairman of the Sovereignty Council.
Of course, the report cannot be taken as fully confirmed until an official statement or announcement is issued by the relevant authorities. Nonetheless, the idea itself merits close attention: assigning the task of security and civilian protection to the Sudanese police—even on a temporary basis and under international supervision.
This proposal—even if it is merely a leak—signals a high level of confidence in the police: confidence in their discipline and in their ability to carry out the mission professionally. Such confidence is not unfounded. The Sudanese police have a long history spanning more than a century, and have consistently demonstrated competence despite extremely difficult circumstances.
Notably, this proposition closely aligns with recommendations previously advanced by independent Sudanese professionals in a memorandum submitted to the United Nations Secretary-General in October 2024. In that memorandum, they called on the international community to support the Sudanese police in their efforts to protect civilians. The document presented an alternative vision to international military interventions, proposing instead that integrated Sudanese police forces undertake civilian-protection duties amid the exceptional conditions facing Sudan.
Whether the idea originates from a national initiative or an external proposal, it reflects a broad consensus that the police are the most appropriate body to protect civilians, lives, and property in post-war environments.
If reports of the Saudi–American proposal prove accurate, it will naturally be referred to the official state institutions for study and deliberation. But regardless of its eventual fate, the police should begin serious preparations now for what lies ahead. As the old professional maxim puts it:
“Officers at all levels must anticipate the duties of the future.”
The next phase requires a police force that is stronger, more cohesive, highly trained, and psychologically and technically capable of dealing with the aftermath of war: redeployment, maintaining public order, and helping people restore their daily lives.
This is a major national mission—no less important than fighting on the front lines—because it represents the first step towards restoring the authority of the state, stabilising society, and rebuilding citizens’ trust in their institutions once again.

Shortlink: https://sudanhorizon.com/?p=10664