The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have declared a significant triumph in Al-Dinder, Sennar state, marking their second takeover of the area in less than a week after intense clashes with General al-Burhan’s forces (SAF) and allied jihadi groups.
On July 4th, the Sudanese army and its allies officially announced their control over Al-Dinder, situated west of Singa, the capital of Sennar state.
This announcement swiftly followed their initial capture of the area on July 2nd.
In a statement released on Friday, the RSF reported a sweeping victory against the Burhan militia, Islamic Movement battalions, and joint forces.
The RSF asserted full control over the strategically vital Al-Dinder area, claiming substantial losses in personnel and equipment inflicted upon SAF.
According to the RSF’s statement, their operations resulted in the capture of nine military-equipped vehicles and the destruction of seven additional vehicles. They also seized various weapons and ammunition, along with reporting the deaths of over 170 enemy combatants.
Moreover, the RSF announced the capture of two key military figures: the commander of the army’s mobile unit and the leader of the joint forces from allied armed groups.
Video footage broadcasted by the RSF purportedly shows their forces stationed on the Al-Dinder bridge, a crucial passage connecting Sennar and Gedaref states via a dirt road.
Located on the border between Sennar and Gedaref states in eastern Sudan, Al-Dinder holds strategic importance as it links Sennar and the Blue Nile areas with the eastern Sudan region, approximately 25 kilometers east of Singa.
Since mid-April 2023, conflict involving the General Burhan’s forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has claimed approximately 13,900 lives and displaced more than 8.5 million Sudanese, according to UN reports, marking one of the largest displacement crises since World War II.
Despite international mediation efforts, the conflict has persisted into its second year, exacerbating Sudan’s humanitarian plight.