On 13 January 2024, the Sudanese Armed Forces launched airstrikes on the nearby city of El Tibbun. In retaliation, the Rapid Support Forces mobilized significant forces in various directions around Babanusa, including in El Tibbun, Samoaa in the southwest, and Muglad in the south.[6]
Siege
On 22 January 2024, the RSF launched an offensive with the aim of seizing control of the 22nd Infantry Division headquarters in Babanusa, West Kordofan.[7] The initial assault was successful for the RSF, capturing several police stations and also releasing videos of RSF soldiers inside of the 22nd Infantry Divisions headquarters, signaling its capture. Later counterattack attempts from the SAF succeeded and RSF forces were pushed out of the headquarters.[6]
A two-day ceasefire was held on 28 January by Misseriya native administration to allow civilians to escape the conflict, however the fighting continued despite the ceasefire attempts.[6]
In an audio recording on 11 February, the head of the RSF, Hemedti, claimed victory in Babanusa and Omdurman. The Sudanese Army responded within a few hours denying this claim and accused Hemedti of "misinformation." The statement further claimed that the RSF suffered "heavy losses" in recent clashes with the army. The Sudanese Army released videos showing their troops in control of the Mohandiseen area and asserted that its forces controlled the Babanusa garrison.[8]
Humanitarian impact
50 civilians died and significant property damage occurred due to the siege as of January 2024.[9][10] Total casualties were reportedly 100 people.[6]
