Sanaa: Armed groups aligned with the Sudanese army announced on Wednesday that they have recaptured the strategically significant Orshi Reservoir area in North Darfur from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after intense clashes.

According to Anadolu Agency, the army-allied Joint Force released a brief statement confirming that its fighters carried out a surprise attack on the Orshi Reservoir area on Wednesday morning. This offensive resulted in the complete control of the area and the expulsion of RSF militia forces. The Joint Force also shared videos on its official Facebook page showing their deployment in the newly secured region.

The Orshi Reservoir holds strategic and humanitarian importance as it is a crucial water source for the Ambro locality, where residents are grappling with severe water shortages. The reservoir's location in the conflict-prone northwestern part of North Darfur adds to its significance, as controlling this site is vital for the movement of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid and supplies.

Previously, on June 15, the RSF had claimed to have seized the reservoir following a major offensive. During that period, local reports indicated that the RSF attack resulted in the deaths of five civilians, while eight surrounding villages were burned and looted, displacing thousands of residents to neighboring areas.

Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minnawi has accused the RSF of committing abuses against civilians and has urged the international community and humanitarian organizations to take action to protect them. Sudan has been mired in conflict since April 2023, when fighting erupted over plans to integrate the RSF into the military. This ongoing war has led to one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises, with tens of thousands killed and millions displaced.