In North Darfur’s Mellit region, a violent clash between rival factions of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has left seven people dead, escalating tensions in the already volatile area.
The deadly confrontation began late Monday when an RSF unit from West Darfur attempted to loot the Mellit market, leading to a fierce standoff with local RSF members determined to protect their territory.
Local sources report that the skirmish quickly intensified, resulting in the destruction of two vehicles and prompting widespread fear among the residents.
As the situation spiraled, businesses shuttered their doors, and the normally bustling streets of Mellit fell eerily silent, with locals opting to stay indoors to avoid the ongoing violence.
The conflict highlights the deepening fractures within the RSF, a paramilitary group that has played a significant role in Sudan’s complex power dynamics. The rival factions, each vying for control and resources, have created an environment of instability and danger for civilians caught in the crossfire.
As both sides continue to mobilize, fears of further escalation grow, leaving Mellit’s future uncertain. The local community, already grappling with the challenges of living in a conflict zone, now faces the added burden of internal strife among those who were once seen as protectors.