Renewed clashes erupt between Sudanese army and RSF in Al-Jazirah
April 8, 2024 (SENNAR) – Renewed clashes erupted on Monday between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in western Sennar and southern Al-Jazirah states, marking a significant escalation in tensions.
Since late March, the army has been conducting a major operation to retake control of Al-Jazirah state, which the RSF seized in December 2023. Military sources informed Sudan Tribune that “a joint force of the army and the General Intelligence Service attacked RSF positions in western Sennar, inflicting heavy casualties and destroying military vehicles.”
The fighting centred around the Sheikh Hajo area, the Sinar Sugar Factory, and areas near Villages 50 and Hillat Ibrahim. Footage released by Sudanese army platforms showed troops capturing and destroying RSF vehicles.
Former military official Ibrahim Al-Houri claimed on Facebook that eight RSF vehicles were destroyed, three captured with weapons, and a truck carrying ammunition seized. He added that the army forced the RSF to retreat.
Rising tensions in Eastern Medani
Meanwhile, a statement from Resistance Committees in Shabarqa, 20 kilometres east of Wad Medani, expressed growing fear among residents. Since April 6th, the RSF reportedly mobilized heavily within the town’s neighbourhoods and market, creating panic. Shabarqa lacks a military garrison, making the RSF presence particularly alarming.
The statement also reported the first major displacement of civilians from the area, fleeing for their safety. With a power outage entering its fifth day, living conditions have deteriorated further. Observers believe the RSF is employing a tactic used elsewhere – redeploying in civilian areas. This follows previous reports of RSF withdrawal into residential areas after the army entered the state.
Separately, an army patrol near Shabarqa reportedly fell into an RSF ambush, suffering casualties.
The RSF seized control of most of Al-Jazirah state in December 2023 after a surprise army withdrawal from Wad Medani. Since February, the RSF has been accused of widespread human rights abuses, including killings, looting, and forced displacement.