Mystery surrounds cargo plane landing in RSF-controlled Nyala

A cargo plane has landed at Nyala airport in Sudan’s South Darfur region, stirring speculation about its operators and cargo amidst ongoing conflict.

The region has been under the control of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since hostilities erupted in April between the RSF and the Sudanese army.

The Russian-built Ilyushin IL-76 touched down at approximately 3:10 a.m. (0010 GMT) and remained on the ground for about 75 minutes, according to local sources. However, details about the plane’s operators and its cargo remain unclear.

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In previous instances, the Sudanese army has accused the United Arab Emirates of providing military support to the RSF through Nyala airport, a claim the UAE has consistently denied. The army has been actively conducting airstrikes in Nyala, targeting what it identifies as RSF positions, leading to numerous reports of civilian casualties.

As the situation unfolds, neither the RSF nor the Sudanese military could be reached for comment regarding the recent landing. The lack of information leaves residents and observers questioning the implications of the flight in an already volatile environment.

Sudan Tribune was unable to independently verify the details surrounding the cargo plane’s landing, highlighting the ongoing challenges of obtaining accurate information in conflict-affected areas. As tensions continue to rise, the incident underscores the complexities and uncertainties facing the region.