In Sudan, army intercepts drones targeting two major dams
Drones were shot down on Tuesday before reaching the Upper Atbara and Setit complex and the Khashm al-Girba dam. In the Blue Nile, separate strikes also hit Damazin, resulting in several casualties.
The Sudanese army announced on Tuesday, September 15, that it had shot down several drones aimed at the Upper Atbara and Setit dam complex in Gedaref State, as well as the Khashm al-Girba dam in Kassala State. No fatalities or structural damage were reported at these facilities.
Anadolu, citing the Sudan News daily, reported that three drones were downed by air defenses in the Al-Fashaga and Khashm al-Girba areas. The report did not specify who was operating these devices. Sudan Tribune, on the other hand, indicated that the drones targeted hydroelectric and irrigation infrastructure near the Ethiopian border.
Further south, Damazin, the capital of Blue Nile State, experienced separate strikes on Sunday and Monday. The army’s 4th infantry division accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of targeting populated areas and civilian facilities. The RSF had not publicly responded to this accusation at the time of the announcement.
Sudan Tribune reported four deaths and several injuries in the attacks on Damazin, citing military sources. Darfur24 documented at least one death at a gas station and reported additional casualties as reported by witnesses, without confirming the total toll available.
The strikes come as the army has bolstered its positions in the Blue Nile in response to the advance of the RSF and their allies from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North. The region borders Ethiopia and South Sudan and serves as a crucial route for troop movements and supply lines.
The Upper Atbara and Setit complex and the Khashm al-Girba dam play a significant role in irrigation and electricity supply for eastern Sudan. Damazin is also located near the Roseires dam, one of the country’s main hydroelectric facilities.
The commander of the 4th infantry division, General Ismail al-Tayeb Hussein, inspected the damage at fuel depots and other civilian sites in Damazin. The army stated on September 15 that it was enhancing the protection of civilians and vital infrastructure in the city.