RSF shells mosque in Omdurman, killing five, as Sudan fighting escalates

November 18, 2024 (EL FASHER) – At least five people were killed and several others wounded when a mosque in Omdurman was hit by shelling on Sunday night, with Sudan’s army blaming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the attack.

The shelling occurred during evening prayers at a mosque in the northern rural area of Omdurman, the Khartoum state media office said. “Five civilians were killed, and others were injured,” the statement said, adding that children were among the wounded.

The incident marks the latest in a series of attacks on civilian areas attributed to the RSF, which has been battling the Sudanese army since April.

Heavy fighting also raged across Khartoum state on Monday, with the army and the RSF exchanging artillery fire in the capital and its twin cities of Omdurman and Bahri. Witnesses reported intense shelling in residential areas.

In El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, residents said clashes between the army and the RSF intensified overnight, with artillery fire hitting civilian neighbourhoods. Witnesses also reported airstrikes by army warplanes targeting RSF positions.

Atbara Airport recently underwent renovations and expansion, including upgrades to its runway and passenger terminals, to prepare for domestic and international flights.

The fighting in El Fasher has escalated in recent weeks as the RSF seeks to gain control of the city, a key government stronghold.

The conflict in Sudan has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and facing acute shortages of food and essential supplies.