KHARTUM (Reuters) – Sudanese forces and powerful militias were embroiled in heavy fighting in the capital and elsewhere in the country on Saturday, inflicting a fresh blow on hopes for a democratic transition and a wider spread. At least three people were killed and dozens were injured, a medical group said.
The clashes ended months of heightened tension between the military and the Rapid Relief Force Group. These tensions have delayed an agreement with political parties to return the country to the short-lived democratic transition derailed by the October 2021 military coup.
All Saturday, the capital Khartoum and its sister city Omdurman heard heavy gunfire where the army and his RSF have amassed tens of thousands of soldiers since the coup. Witnesses said fighters on both sides opened fire from machine guns mounted on armored vehicles and pickup trucks during the fighting in populated areas.Several tanks were seen in Khartoum. The military said it launched attacks with planes and drones against his RSF positions in and around the capital.
Locals described the chaotic scene. “Fires and explosions are everywhere,” said Amal Mohamed, a doctor at Omdurman’s public hospital. “Everyone runs and looks for shelter.”
