SPLM-N rebels report new clashes in South Kordofan

April 3, 2015 (KHARTOUM) - The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) fighters reported several clashes with the Sudanese government forces in South Kordofan in different positions during the week.

Undated photo released by the SPLM-N showing commanders from the Sudan People Liberation Movement-North at an undisclosed location

SPLM - N spokesman, Arnu Ngutulu Lodi, said in a statement released on Friday that the rebel fighters carried out an attack on Alfarishaiya, 25 km northwest of Dilling on Sunday 29 March, adding they took the control of the area during two hours before to withdraw.

Lodi further claimed they killed 28 soldiers and seized a number of weapons including seven anti-tank launchers RPG, and five heavy machine guns Dshka.

The fighting resumed between the two warring parties in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states since December 2014 when they failed to reach a cessation of hostilities agreement in Addis Ababa.

The African Union mediation called last week for a meeting to prepare an inclusive process to end war and discuss constitutional reforms but Khartoum government declined the invitation, saying it is preferable to organise it after April elections.

The rebel spokesperson added they repulsed on Wednesday 1 April an attack by the Sudanese government troops on a rebel controlled area, Jabel-ubsim 25kms southwest Abassia town.

Arnu said the attackers fled the area leaving eight dead bodies.

He also reported they repelled another attack on several villages in Rashad district but he didn’t mention the date.

The Sudanese army spokesperson was not available for comment.

UN humanitarian coordination body , OCHA, said Thursday that the recent fighting Habila, 50kms east of Dilling, displaced unknown number of civilians who sought shelter in the villages surrounding the area but also in Dilling and Alqoz towns.

However, aid workers can only reach the affected population in Dilling.

"Humanitarian aid agencies are concerned about the plight of civilians who have been affected and/or displaced from Habila and surrounding areas," said OCHA.

(ST)