Sudan's largest oilfield, Heglig, falls under RSF control
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced on Monday that it had seized control of the strategic Heglig oilfield in Sudan's South Kordofan province. The claim was later corroborated by a statement issued by the Sudanese Armed Forces' military government, stating that they had withdrawn from the area.
This latest move is part of the RSF's expansionist push into southern and eastern regions, following its successful takeover of Darfur last month. The group has been engaged in a two-and-a-half-year conflict with the SAF over territory, fueling further instability in the region.
The Heglig field, situated far south of Sudan's central Kordofan region, is not only the country's largest oilfield but also serves as the primary processing facility for South Sudan's oil exports. Youssef Alian, head of the RSF-affiliated civil administration at the site, attributed the takeover to his organization's efforts.
The RSF's move has raised concerns about regional security and access to natural resources, particularly as central Sudan is a significant agricultural hub. The region is also rich in gold reserves, with Heglig itself sitting atop considerable oil reserves.
Following the announcement, SAF troops withdrew from the area, citing the need to protect the oil facilities and prevent damage. Local authorities have since restricted entry to the field, tasking a specialized force with safeguarding it.
The RSF's control of Heglig is viewed as a pivotal moment in their broader strategy to liberate Sudanese territory. However, this development has further exacerbated regional tensions, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis and displacing millions of people.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced on Monday that it had seized control of the strategic Heglig oilfield in Sudan's South Kordofan province. The claim was later corroborated by a statement issued by the Sudanese Armed Forces' military government, stating that they had withdrawn from the area.
This latest move is part of the RSF's expansionist push into southern and eastern regions, following its successful takeover of Darfur last month. The group has been engaged in a two-and-a-half-year conflict with the SAF over territory, fueling further instability in the region.
The Heglig field, situated far south of Sudan's central Kordofan region, is not only the country's largest oilfield but also serves as the primary processing facility for South Sudan's oil exports. Youssef Alian, head of the RSF-affiliated civil administration at the site, attributed the takeover to his organization's efforts.
The RSF's move has raised concerns about regional security and access to natural resources, particularly as central Sudan is a significant agricultural hub. The region is also rich in gold reserves, with Heglig itself sitting atop considerable oil reserves.
Following the announcement, SAF troops withdrew from the area, citing the need to protect the oil facilities and prevent damage. Local authorities have since restricted entry to the field, tasking a specialized force with safeguarding it.
The RSF's control of Heglig is viewed as a pivotal moment in their broader strategy to liberate Sudanese territory. However, this development has further exacerbated regional tensions, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis and displacing millions of people.