SPLM-N claims repulsing fresh government attack in the Blue Nile
August 19, 2015 (KHARTOUM) – The rebel Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/North (SPLM-N) said the government army failed in its eights attack during this year to control the strategic area of Jebel Kolgo, 30 kilometres south west of the Blue Nile state capital of Ed-Damazin.
He pointed that their forces clashed with the Sudanese army from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. (local time) on Monday in Jebel Kolgo, saying the area became a “graveyard” for the government army who attempted to seize control of Gumog eight times since last January.
Lodi said the government forces suffered heavy losses in lives and equipment, pointing that 10 soldiers were killed in the clashes.
The spokesperson added they destroyed a four-wheel drive vehicle carrying Dushka cannon besides seizing 6 Kalashnikov rifles, 2 RBG 7 and BKM machine guns.
He stressed that the SPLM-N fighters chased the fleeing government troops to Bagis area on the outskirts of Ed-Damazin, saying their forces suffered no losses.
It should be recalled that Jebel Kolgo lies in a rough terrain and is considered an important location for the SPLM-N.
On 14 June, the SPLM-N said its fighters repulsed a fourth government attack Jebel Kolgo, noting the area witnessed three previous attacks on 23 April and 11 and 22 May.
SPLM-N said on Tuesday that it seized control of the strategic Gadier and Abu Grain garrisons in South Kordofan state.
The fighting between the Sudanese government and the SPLM-N fighters in Blue Nile started in September 2011 three months after the start of hostilities in South Kordofan state.
In December of last year, the warring parties failed to strike a cessation of hostilities deal.
(ST)