SPLM-N claims control of new areas in Blue Nile region

May 8, 2026 (ED DAMAZIN) – The SPLM-N, allied with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), announced that coalition forces seized two towns in the southern Blue Nile region following what it described as swift battles with the Sudanese army.

In a statement, the SPLM-N said its forces took control of the towns of Dukan and Keren Keren, located south of Kurmuk county, on Thursday.

The movement released video footage of battles it claimed took place Thursday morning in Dukan, ending with the capture of the area and the pursuit of army troops until late in the day.

Field commander Awad Bella al-Fil stated that SPLM-N forces encountered little resistance in Dukan and seized military equipment from the army. He noted that their forces are now advancing toward Khor Hassan.

Earlier on Thursday, sources reported that RSF units attacked Dukan and Keren Keren, forcing the army to withdraw after several hours of fighting.

According to the SPLM-N, its forces and the RSF have seized more than 10 strategic areas since March, including the city of Kurmuk.

The fighting front in the Blue Nile region of Sudan’s far southeast has been active since February. This has enabled the RSF and the SPLM-N faction led by Joseph Touka to control Kurmuk and other towns bordering Ethiopia.

In April, the Sudanese army sent military reinforcements to the Blue Nile region, including elements of the Sudan Shield Forces led by Abu Agla Keikel.

Sudan has accused neighbouring Ethiopia of providing logistical support to the allied SPLM-N and RSF forces in the Blue Nile region.