November 23, 2024 (SINJAH) – The Sudanese army announced on Saturday it had retaken the strategic city of Sinjah, the capital of Sennar state, from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after fierce fighting.
Thousands of residents celebrated the liberation of Sinjah, which had been under RSF control since June. Similar celebrations erupted in Al Hawata, a city in Gedaref state where many had sought refuge from the fighting.
The army released a video on social media showing its troops inside the headquarters of the 17th Infantry Division in Sinjah.
“The armed forces and other regular forces are inside the 17th Infantry Division headquarters in Sinjah,” the army said in a statement. “We are on the path to completely cleansing the homeland of the terrorist RSF militia.”
Military sources told Sudan Tribune that the army had secured all entry and exit points to Sinjah after intense battles involving drones and artillery strikes. Following the capture of Sinjah, the army advanced towards areas east of the city, including Al Dali, Al Mazmoum, and Abu Hajar.
The army’s recapture of Sinjah comes after a concerted effort to mobilize forces from Al Dinder, Al Suki, Sennar, and Blue Nile. Troops slowly advanced towards the city, retaking towns and villages along the way.
The army congratulated the Sudanese people on the liberation of Sinjah and the 17th Infantry Division.
“We dedicate this victory to our people who have suffered killing, displacement, oppression, looting, and all kinds of atrocities from the militia of the Hemeti family,” the army said, referring to RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as Hemetti.
Government spokesman and Information Minister Khalid Al-Awais said in a statement that the recapture of Sinjah reflects the resilience of the Sudanese people and their armed forces.
“This steadfastness confirms that the people and their forces are on a date with achieving more victories that will restore security and stability to the country,” he said.
Al-Awais added that a “moment of justice and accountability is coming” for those who committed crimes during the conflict.
The army’s capture of Sinjah follows its successful operation in October to cut off RSF supply lines by taking control of the Moya Mountains, where the RSF had established a key base.