Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces in a statement on Monday said the recent clash between RSF and Sudan Liberation Movement’s al-Nur faction was due to “miscommunication and inadequate field coordination.”
The incident took place after RSF soldiers received intelligence that an armed group was observed in the northern region of al-Fashir, a route exploited by terrorists aligned with the Sudanese Armed Forces, and decided to investigate, the group said.
“Our troops encountered a faction later identified as part of the Sudan Liberation Movement led by Commander Abdul Wahid Mohamed Nur. This group was en route to areas under their jurisdiction. Regrettably, the encounter resulted in casualties on both sides. Our thoughts are with the fallen, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”
The incident underscores the regrettable outcomes stemming from miscommunication and insufficient field coordination between the RSF and the Sudan Liberation Movement in North Darfur, RSF statement said.
Both factions commenced discussions on the same day to promptly tackle and resolve the misunderstanding, extending apologies where deemed necessary, RSF said.
“We commend the Sudan Liberation Movement’s commitment to neutrality since the conflict’s onset and value their cooperative stance during this challenging period,” RSF statement said.
The incident underscores the urgent necessity for enhanced coordination among all neutral armed factions concerning troop movements, RSF said.
“Such actions are vital for preventing future misunderstandings. The RSF remains unwavering in its dedication to restricting the movement of hostile mercenaries within regions under our safeguarding, both within Darfur and beyond.”
Sudan has been mired by fighting between the army, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who is the head of the ruling Sovereign Council, and the RSF.
At least 13,900 people have been killed and more than eight million displaced in the conflict that started in April 2023, according to UN figures.
Several cease-fire agreements brokered by Saudi Arabia and US mediators have failed to end the violence.
