Sudanese Army Regains Control of Key Market in Omdurman from RSF

The Sudanese army has retaken control of Souq Libya, a significant market in Omdurman, from the Rapid Support Forces as part of its offensive to reclaim the capital region. This move signals progress in their campaign against the RSF, which has dominated parts of the region since the war commenced in April 2023. The ongoing conflict has caused massive displacement and humanitarian challenges for millions in Sudan.

The Sudanese army announced on Saturday that it has regained control of a significant market in Omdurman, a city neighboring Khartoum, previously utilized by the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as an operational base. This development is part of the army’s broader offensive aimed at reclaiming the entire capital region, which encompasses Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri.

This offensive has already enabled the army to capture key strategic locations, including the presidential palace and the war-impacted airport, amidst its campaign advancing through the city center. Army spokesman Nabil Abdullah reported that forces have taken control of Souq Libya in Omdurman, confiscating weapons and equipment that had been abandoned by the RSF in their retreat.

Souq Libya, recognized as one of the largest markets in the Khartoum vicinity, had reportedly served as a stronghold for the RSF, facilitating their attacks on surrounding areas since the onset of war between the army and the RSF on April 15, 2023. Despite the army’s achievements in Omdurman, the RSF continues to maintain a presence, particularly in the Ombada district to the west of the city.

As of late Thursday, the military spokesman stated that the army had eradicated the last remaining RSF factions within Khartoum itself. The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which originated nearly two years ago from a power struggle between the army and the RSF, has led to significant humanitarian crises. The United Nations has reported that over 3.5 million people have been displaced from Khartoum alone since the war commenced, while many others remain trapped amid the destruction.

In summary, the Sudanese army’s recent successes in Omdurman mark a critical phase in its campaign to reclaim control of the capital region from the Rapid Support Forces. With the recapture of strategic locations such as Souq Libya and the presidential palace, the army continues to push back against RSF presence, although significant challenges remain in the ongoing conflict, which has devastated civilian life and resulted in mass displacement.

Original Source: www.france24.com