Khartoum – Sudan Now | 19 May 2026
Violent clashes have erupted between the RSF and armed groups from South Sudan in Heglig and Al Muglad areas, as well as on the outskirts of El Fula in West Kordofan State, according to local sources. The clashes reportedly followed an attempt by armed elements to withdraw southward toward the border with South Sudan.
The sources said that a RSF unit set up an ambush for an armed group believed to include South Sudanese fighters who had previously taken part in fighting alongside the RSF against the Sudanese army. The group was attempting to leave the area carrying weapons and military equipment, which led to clashes that resulted in casualties and injuries on both sides, while a number of fighters managed to escape.
The sources indicated that El Fula had witnessed repeated tensions and confrontations in recent periods between these groups and RSF elements.
Local reports also spoke of violations against civilians during previous clashes, including displacement and detentions, amid a worsening security and humanitarian situation in the area.
RSF-affiliated platforms circulated video footage they said showed the arrest of several fighters following the clashes, in addition to the seizure of weapons, combat equipment, and four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Repeated accusations of recruiting foreign fighters
Previous international and human rights reports have indicated the involvement of foreign fighters in the Sudanese war alongside the RSF, including individuals from African countries and Latin America. This has led the United States, at an earlier stage, to impose sanctions on networks accused of recruiting foreign fighters in support of the forces.
RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo “Hemedti” had previously acknowledged in a speech the use of Colombian fighters to assist in operating drones and participating in combat operations. Meanwhile, circulating footage over recent months has shown the presence of foreign elements in areas under RSF control, particularly in the Darfur region.
Rising tensions in West Kordofan
Areas of West Kordofan have witnessed sustained security deterioration for months due to competition over supply routes, oil fields, and spheres of influence among the warring parties, particularly around Heglig, El Fula, and Al Muglad.
The ongoing war since April 2023 has also triggered large-scale displacement and the collapse of basic services across wide parts of the state, amid growing warnings of a worsening humanitarian and security situation as fighting continues and the spread of armed groups expands.
