The RSF’s significant territorial gain coincides with the resumption of peace talks in Saudi Arabia between the two warring factions. Thus far, the army has not issued a statement regarding its loss in Nyala.
Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state, holds strategic importance as it connects Sudan with the Central African Republic (CAR). Originating in Darfur, the RSF has faced accusations of committing atrocities against non-Arabic communities in the region throughout this year’s conflict.
In recent weeks, several high-ranking army generals, including the military head in Nyala, lost their lives in battle. The RSF’s second-in-command, Abdulrahim Daglo, who faced sanctions from the US for his alleged involvement in ethnic cleansing in West Darfur, led the effort to capture Nyala.
Eyewitnesses have reported that RSF fighters have been looting and forcibly entering civilian residences since their takeover of the city.
EMERGENCY, a medical organization specializing in treating war victims, reported that its Sudanese staff members were apprehended by the RSF and removed from a pediatric center in Nyala.
In June, the RSF seized Um-Dafog, a small town near the border with the CAR, which is thought to be a pivotal location for their supply chain.
Accusations have been leveled against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for supplying weapons to the RSF via the CAR and Chad’s Um-Dafog. The UAE, however, has denied these allegations.