A unit of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces surrendered to the army in Sinjah after crossing back from South Sudan. This development raises concerns over weapon smuggling and security in the region. Continued RSF presence and skirmishes indicate ongoing tensions despite the recent surrender.
On February 15, 2025, a unit of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) stationed in the Al-Muzmum area, adjacent to the South Sudan border, surrendered to the Sudanese army in Sinjah, the capital of Sennar state. Military sources reported that this unit, comprised of approximately 100 members, had briefly crossed into South Sudan before returning to surrender at the Joda border crossing.
Local authorities expressed concerns regarding RSF troops’ presence in border areas, fearing potential smuggling of weapons into South Sudan which could further destabilize the region. Reports suggest that some RSF members sold their weapons to local civilians for monetary gain, contributing to heightened security issues.
Following the army’s takeover of Sennar state cities in November, the RSF retreated from Senga to Al-Muzmum, located alongside the South Sudanese border. The army’s actions came soon after a successful recovery of the Jebel Moya area west of Senga, leading to increased tensions in the vicinity.
Despite the surrender, military sources noted that RSF forces continue to occupy Al-Muzmum, maintaining over 30 military vehicles. Furthermore, regions in southern White Nile State have seen ongoing skirmishes between RSF forces and the Sudanese army, indicating a prolonged conflict in the area.
In December, another smaller RSF faction of 41 troops pledged allegiance to Hamula al-Bishi and surrendered in the al-Buzi region of Al-Muzmum. Other RSF units remain active in the But area south of Blue Nile state as well as various locations along the Sinnar and Blue Nile state borders, maintaining a complex security situation.
The surrender of the RSF unit at Sinjah marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, highlighting both the challenges of regional stability and the complexities of military engagements in the area. The potential for arms smuggling from RSF units poses serious risks, while ongoing skirmishes indicate that the conflict is far from over, necessitating close monitoring and strategic responses from authorities.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
