FIGHTING RESUMES IN NORTH DARFUR AS NRF CAPTURES UM SIDIR

UNCLAS KHARTOUM 002201 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS DEPT FOR AF/SPG, S/CRS, AF/RSA DEPT PLS PASS USAID FOR AFR/SUDAN E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV KPKO SOCI AU UN US SU SUBJECT: FIGHTING RESUMES IN NORTH DARFUR AS NRF CAPTURES UM SIDIR ¶1. (SBU) UN sources report that on September 11, National Redemption Front (NRF) forces attacked and recaptured Um Sidir, 90 km north of El Fasher. In reprisal for the NRF attack, on September 12, Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated bombing of Um Sidir and Hashaba North. It is believed that SAF ground forces will most likely follow the aerial bombardment within 24-48 hours. These forces are likely to come from the Kutum, Kafod, and Mellit staging areas, possibly extending along the Kutum-Kulkul-Mellit line. There are also reports of fighting in the Dobo area, East Jebel Marra, and the region from Tawilla to Tabarat and surrounding areas. Note: Embassy Political Specialist in El Fasher also reports fighting, to include the hijacking of several Government vehicles, resulting in many killed and wounded, with wounded being medevaced to hospitals in El Fasher. End note. ¶2. (SBU) Comment: The NRF attack on Um Sidir is likely an attempt to forestall the SAF offensive pushing northwest out of El Fasher into rebel-held areas of North Darfur. SAF ground troops are expected to retake and hold Um Sidir in coming days. End comment. POWERS