Sudanese Army Regains Control of Key Market in Omdurman

The Sudanese army has reclaimed the Omdurman market from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking progress in its campaign to regain control of the Khartoum region. This follows previous successes, including the capture of the presidential palace. Despite these advancements, the RSF retains positions in parts of Omdurman, and the ongoing conflict has led to significant displacement among the population.

The Sudanese army announced on Saturday that it has regained control of a significant market located in Omdurman, a city adjacent to Khartoum, which had been utilized by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as a base for their operations. This development marks a progress in the army’s ongoing campaign to reclaim the entire Khartoum region, encompassing the cities of Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri, which are separated by divisions of the River Nile.

This recent military advance follows the army’s successful capture of the presidential palace on March 21, in addition to the war-damaged airport and other pivotal sites within the city. Army spokesman Nabil Abdullah confirmed that their forces had expanded control over Souq Libya in Omdurman, where they confiscated weapons and equipment abandoned by the RSF during their retreat.

Souq Libya, recognized as one of the largest and busiest markets in Khartoum, has been a stronghold for the RSF and a launch point for their attacks against northern and central Omdurman since the onset of hostilities between the army and the RSF on April 15, 2023. Although much of Omdurman is under army control, the RSF continues to maintain a presence in the western parts of the city, notably in the Ombada district.

On Thursday, the military spokesperson asserted that the army had successfully cleared Khartoum of the remaining RSF strongholds. The conflict in Sudan began nearly two years ago, catalyzed by a power struggle between the army and the RSF, which was formerly an ally.

As the war has persisted, more than 3.5 million residents of Khartoum have been displaced, according to United Nations estimates. Many individuals have been forced to remain amidst decaying infrastructure, abandoned vehicles, and what the army describes as concealed mass graves. Currently, the war has effectively divided Sudan, with the army exercising dominance in the eastern and northern regions, while the RSF controls the majority of Darfur in the west and portions of the south.

The Sudanese army’s recent capture of the Souq Libya market in Omdurman represents a significant milestone in its efforts to restore control over the capital region, which has been embroiled in conflict with the RSF. The ongoing military operations aim to establish stability after years of power struggles, which have precipitated widespread displacement and destruction. Continued military engagements will determine the future territorial dynamics between the army and the RSF in Sudan.

Original Source: www.france24.com