SPLM-N rebels repulse fresh government attack in S. Kordofan: spokesperson

March 9, 2016 (KHARTOUM) – The rebel Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) Wednesday said its fighters repulsed a government attack near Alfarshia area, north of Dilling town in South Kordofan state.

Last Saturday, the Sudanese army said its troops were ready to start the “Decisive Summer” campaign in South Kordofan following the arrival of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) troops in the state’s capital, Kadougli.

In a statement extended to Sudan Tribune Wednesday, SPLM-N official spokesperson, Arnu Ngutulu Lodi, said their fighters in South Kordofan under the command of Brig. Gen. Daud Ashaya rebelled a government offensive attempted to occupy SPLM/N controlled area.

The statement stressed that SPLM-N fighters dispersed the attackers and pursued them into Alfarshia garrison, saying 13 government soldiers were killed and several others wounded.

It added that SPLM-N fighters destroyed one mounted Land Cruiser vehicle and seized one RPG-7 missile launcher in good condition, pointing that 3 SPLM-N fighters were killed and three others injured in the attack.

The Sudanese army spokesperson was not reachable for comment.

The border states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile state have been the scene of a violent conflict since 2011 when fighting broke out between the SPLM-N and Sudanese army.

In November of last year, the warring parties failed to strike a cessation of hostilities deal.

Following the collapse of talks, Sudan’s defence minister Awad Ibn Ouf said the army would raise the state of preparedness in Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile, vowing to actively seek to recapture the SPLM-N stronghold of Kauda.

(ST)