In a significant development in the ongoing six-month war in Sudan, paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has claimed control over Nyala, the nation’s second-largest city, situated beyond the Khartoum region. The RSF issued a statement declaring their takeover of the army’s primary headquarters in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state, along with the seizure of all military equipment. While they shared video footage of their soldiers celebrating with gunfire, it’s worth noting that Reuters could not independently verify this claim.
The army remained notably silent in response, and a network blackout hindered immediate verification efforts. The claim came as both sides were expected to resume negotiations in Jeddah.
While the RSF has established dominance in much of Khartoum on the ground, the national capital’s key military installations have held firm. A considerable portion of the government has relocated to Port Sudan along the Red Sea coast.
Additionally, the RSF released video footage featuring their second-in-command, Abdelrahim Dagalo, who has faced sanctions from the United States, asserting his leadership in this endeavor.
Nyala, which serves as a critical trade hub, had previously been a focal point of intense conflict, characterized by airstrikes and artillery bombardments that claimed numerous lives, caused widespread destruction of homes, and disrupted essential services.
South Darfur has suffered significantly, with at least 670,000 residents displaced from their homes, making it the second most impacted region after Khartoum.
The RSF, known for their stronghold in parts of the Darfur region, has faced accusations of committing ethnic massacres, particularly in the West Darfur capital of Geneina, while simultaneously stoking tensions across the entire region.
Moreover, the RSF has also taken control of Zalingei, the capital of Central Darfur state. In regard to the other two state capitals in the region, the RSF has deployed forces to the East Darfur capital, El Daein, although the army maintains its presence there. Fierce battles for control of the North Darfur capital, El Fasher, continue unabated.
