RSF CLAIMS IT SHOT DOWN TURKISH-MADE DRONE OVER NYALA, ACCUSES SUDANESE ARMY OF CIVILIAN ATTACKS.

BY NJOKI KARANJA 

Nyala, South Darfur.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said on Thursday evening that its air defense units shot down a Turkish-made Akinci drone over the city of Nyala, claiming the aircraft was attempting to strike civilians as part of ongoing air operations by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

In a statement issued by its official spokesperson, the RSF accused the SAF—described by the paramilitary group as operating under the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood—of carrying out a series of drone attacks on civilian areas across Darfur. The RSF alleged that recent strikes have targeted hospitals and public markets in the Al-Zuruq area of North Darfur, actions it described as grave violations of international law.

“Our forces affirm their high level of readiness to confront aerial attacks and their ability to protect civilians,” the statement said, adding that near-daily drone strikes have hit residential neighborhoods, public facilities, infrastructure, and medical centers.

The RSF called on the international community, regional organizations, and human rights bodies to condemn what it termed “heinous crimes” and to take immediate steps to halt attacks on populated civilian areas. The group also said it would continue what it described as vigilant monitoring and field operations to protect cities and villages.

There was no immediate comment from the Sudanese Armed Forces regarding the RSF’s claims, and independent verification of the drone’s downing or the alleged targets was not available.

Sudan has been engulfed in conflict since April 2023, when fighting erupted between the SAF and the RSF, displacing millions and devastating infrastructure, particularly in the Darfur region. Repeated attacks on civilian areas have drawn international concern, though efforts to secure a sustained ceasefire have so far failed.