„Sudan Army Accuses HDK of Becoming a Rebel Force for State and National Security“
Sudan’s army has declared the Rapid Support Forces-affiliated group, HDK, to be a „rebel force“ for state and national security. In a statement, the army accused the HDK of attempting to attack its forces around the city of Spor and at other points. The army is responding to what it labeled as the HDK’s „treasonous act.“ The HDK claims it is defending itself from simultaneous attacks on its forces and called on citizens to stand by them to protect their gains. The clashes have resulted in the Rapid Support Forces allegedly taking control of Meravi Airport and Military Air Base and Khartoum International Airport. The capital is experiencing intense struggles near the airport and the army headquarters, which also include the General Staff and the Ministry of Defense. Additionally, eyewitnesses have reported that the Rapid Support Forces have surrounded the state television station. The HDK was formed as a militia in support of Darfur and had tens of thousands of members but has since been labeled a „parallel army“ by the Sudanese army. The Sudanese army is adamant that the HDK should be attached to it, while the HDK states that this should only occur after the transition to a civilian rule.
