Sudanese troops advance towards Omdurman, regain control of key area

August 4, 2024 (Omdurman) – The Sudanese army continued its offensive in western Omdurman, capturing new positions on Sunday after heavy clashes with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The advance follows the successful recapture of RSF positions in Al-Muhandisin and Al-Fatihab neighborhoods by Indian troops on August 1 as part of operations to ensure security in western and southern Omdurman.

Military sources told Sudan Tribune that government forces have taken control of the Corps of Engineers’ western and northern fronts, stretching from the Bashir Bridge through Umbada Hamadnil to the outskirts of Mansoura.

It is reported that the government forces seized 7 military vehicles, destroyed 6 military vehicles, and seized two “Kornet” anti-tank guns and a large number of weapons.

Witnesses described violent clashes in the Al-Bustan and Al-Nakhil neighborhoods, with rapid security force retreats to Muraba’at, Al-Bank Al-Aqari, Souq Libya and Dar Al-Salam.

Shells landed in Dar Al-Salam square 26, Ombada Krour and Wad Al-Bashir, but there were no casualties.

The Mansoura area, which has been under the control of the army for the first time since the conflict broke out in April, is a key stronghold used by the RSF to launch attacks on the engineering corps. The area also houses long-range missile and artillery platforms targeting the army headquarters in Al-Thawra and Kalari, the sources said.

This strategic advantage gave the army access to Dar el-Salam, Libya Souk, Kandahar, and the Omdurman-Barah exit road, a key RSF supply route.

Pages supporting the army shared videos showing the army’s presence in Al-Muhandisin in Mansoura and the capture of RSF vehicles.

Major General Alzafer Omar, Commander of the Omdurman Military Zone and the Engineering Corps, inspected the newly constructed military base at the former Indian Emergency Force stronghold.

These latest developments build on the army’s success in breaking through the Corps of Engineers siege and retaking the old town of Omdurman, including the headquarters of the General Radio and Television Authority.