Sudan army drone strikes kill 20 in Darfur, officials say

April 13, 2026 (ED DAEIN/GENEINA) – Sudanese army drones launched a series of airstrikes across East, West, and North Darfur on Sunday and Monday, resulting in at least 20 civilian deaths and widespread destruction.

The strikes represent the most extensive aerial campaign in months as the armed forces seek to degrade the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) defensive and offensive capabilities, which control the majority of the vast region.

The West Darfur Emergency Coordination Council said in a statement that drones targeted two sites in the state, including the Al-Jumruk market. The strike on the crowded market killed five people and injured 20 others, leaving some bodies charred and the facility completely burned.

Military sources said the army’s drone operations are focused on severing RSF fuel supplies by targeting fuel markets and tankers arriving from Chad via the Adikonq crossing.

The council’s statement noted significant damage to private property, including the destruction of several vehicles and shops. A separate strike hit a civilian vehicle in the Sisi area on the road linking Zalingei and Geneina, killing five more civilians.

The council condemned the targeting of civilians as a criminal act in violation of international law, calling on the international community to hold those responsible accountable.

In Ed Daein, drones attacked several sites, including the General Intelligence Service headquarters, which the RSF uses as a detention centre.

The Civil Administration in East Darfur announced that at least 10 civilians were killed in the attacks on Ed Daein, including five environmental health workers.

Ed Daein has faced frequent drone strikes recently, with the military targeting RSF facilities, government buildings, and the city’s main hospital.

Local sources in North Darfur reported that intense drone strikes also hit the Al-Sereif area police station, completely destroying the building and several RSF combat vehicles.