SPLM-N rebels claim fresh attacks on Sudanese army in Blue Nile

March 10, 2013 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan People’s Liberation Movement North (SPLM-N) on Sunday said they carried out preventive attack on two positions held by Sudanese army in Blue Nile state.

Last February the SPLM-N claimed that its troops had been fighting inside the strategic town of Kurmuk on the border with Ethiopia. However, it appeared that the rebels were ordered to pull out as their leadership was not prepared to control the town.

Arnu Ngutulu Lodi, SPLM-N spokesperson, on Sunday said in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune that their fighters attacked on Saturday Surkum and Saali, located northwest of Kurmuk. He added that they controlled Surkum for several hours before to withdraw.

“These forces and affiliated militias were preparing to launch an attack on civilians in the SPLM-N controlled areas”, he further said.

The rebel official said that the government army suffered heavy losses in lives and equipment, without providing further details.

The Sudanese army last month attacked the rebel positions in Mafo, in the Blue Nile, speaking about preparations by rebel groups to attack strategic positions the southern and western states in the country.

Khartoum and the time also accused the South Sudanese army and foreign mercenary of fighting besides the SPLM-N rebels.

(ST)