Sudanese forces repel cross-border incursion by Ethiopian militiamen
March 24, 2021 (GADAREF) – Sudanese forces Wednesday repulsed Ethiopian militiamen trying to seize a border area inside Sudan.
The Sudan Tribune learned that the Sudanese Reserve Forces clashed with armed Ethiopian militias backed by the Ethiopian army forces from the Amhara region in the Basinda area.
The Ethiopian groups penetrated into Sudanese territory, 8 kilometres from the international border, in the areas of Zura and Shai Bait, north of Taya town, on the Sudanese-Ethiopian border.
Multiples sources confirmed to the Sudan Tribune that the Sudanese forces killed and injured several assailants and seized a number of weapons, and agricultural gears.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister said they do not want war with Sudan. However, Ethiopian militiamen continue to stage cross-border incursions and killed Sudanese farmers and civilians.
Since April 2020 Ethiopian militiamen intensified their attacks inside Sudan while the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed earlier this year denounced the 1902 and 1972 border demarcation agreements, claiming the ownership of the Al-Fashaga area.
Sudan says it has reclaimed 90% of its land on the eastern border and massed troops on the border. Ethiopian also deployed troops on the other side.
Khartoum on Tuesday announced a mediation by the United Arab Emirates to resolve the conflict. But seemingly the two capitals have reservations on the initiative.
(ST)