A tribal leader in North Darfur has issued a warning of possible large-scale attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on several localities, potentially intensifying Sudan’s ongoing conflict.
Saleh Abdallah, head of the Zaghawa tribal council, stated that RSF forces plan to advance on the al-Tina, Umbaru, and Karnoi areas, launching from their positions in neighboring West Darfur. He claimed these localities, currently under partial control by the Sudanese army and its allies, face imminent assault.
“We believe they’re preparing to move on our lands,” Abdallah said in an audio message shared with Sudanese media, adding that local fighters are mobilizing to defend the targeted areas near the border with Chad.
Since the conflict’s escalation in April 2024, the RSF has largely dominated North Darfur, clashing with the army for control over El Fasher, the regional capital, since May 2024. Abdallah alleged that RSF forces and allied groups have recently razed 120 villages in a “retaliatory campaign” against the Zaghawa, displacing numerous residents to Chad.
Moreover, he highlighted reports of revenge-driven violence targeting Zaghawa communities in Kutum locality since mid-October, where over 45 villages have reportedly been destroyed.
