Sudan says foiling long-range drone attacks on Atbara

November 27, 2024 (ATBARA) – Sudanese authorities said on Wednesday they had successfully countered long-range drone attacks on the city of Atbara amid rising tensions with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Atbara, a strategically important city about 267 km (166 miles) north of Khartoum, has come under repeated drone fire in recent days. The Nile River State Security Committee said the drones, launched from over 300 km (186 miles) away, targeted the city’s artillery base and airport.

“These long-range attacks pose significant challenges,” the committee said in a statement, adding that security forces had identified the launch sites and possess detailed information about them.

Two drones were intercepted on Wednesday night. While no casualties were reported, two children sustained minor injuries and were treated at a local hospital.

The committee dismissed claims that the drones were launched from nearby farms or expatriate residences as “attempts to sow confusion and mislead public opinion.” It asserted that the security situation in Atbara remained “under full control.”

In statements to Sudan Tribune, a security source blamed the RSF for the attacks, claiming they reflected the “desperation” of the paramilitary group amid ongoing conflict.

RSF commanders have previously threatened to attack Atbara and Shendi, another city in Nile River State with a heavy military presence.  However, the paramilitary group didn’t claim responsibility for these drone attacks.