A Sudanese army commander was reportedly killed on Tuesday during an ambush by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) near Tambul in Al Jazirah state, according to military officials. Brigadier General Ahmed Shaa Al-Din’s death heightens tensions as violence escalates between the army and RSF in the region.
The conflict intensified following the defection of RSF commander Abu Aqla Kikl to the army, prompting the RSF to launch retaliatory attacks in areas previously controlled by Kikl. Sources indicate that Al-Din, who managed the transfer of Kikl to the armed forces, was conducting an operation close to Tambul when his unit encountered an ambush.
While the army and allied tribal forces momentarily entered Tambul, they were soon forced to withdraw as the RSF regained control of the town. The RSF issued a statement claiming the deaths of over 370 army personnel, including Al-Din, along with the capture of 60 military vehicles; however, these figures have not been independently verified by Reuters.
Local activists and residents have reported numerous RSF assaults on civilians in eastern Al Jazirah, highlighting incidents of murder, forced displacement, and theft. The Rufaa Resistance Committees, a local activist organization, accused the RSF of committing sexual violence against several girls and coercing residents in multiple villages to evacuate.
The recent clashes in Al Jazirah reflect an ongoing pattern of violence between the army and the RSF, which has held control over the state since December. The continuing hostilities have resulted in significant humanitarian distress and displacement for the local population.