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.


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