Top Sudanese Army Officer Confirmed Dead in West Kordofan Clashes; Commander’s Fate Uncertain
Babanusa, Sudan – Amidst the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the Sudanese army has confirmed the death of Major General Abdel Majid Ahmed Al-Haj, who held the position of second commander within the 22nd Infantry Division in Babanusa. The announcement, made on Friday, leaves the whereabouts and status of the division’s overall commander, Major General Muawiya Hamad, unknown, fueling further speculation about the chaotic events that transpired during a recent military withdrawal.
The 22nd Infantry Division, a key army installation in West Kordofan State, fell under the control of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on December 1st, following intense and prolonged fighting. Reports indicate that the army forces subsequently retreated southward, initially towards Heglig. However, positions in Heglig were reportedly vacated, and some elements are said to have crossed the border into neighboring South Sudan.
The Air Defence Forces officially acknowledged Al-Haj’s passing through a statement on their Facebook page. The statement lauded his sacrifice, emphasizing that he “departed facing the enemy, not fleeing, steadfast in the fighting trenches, performing his duty with the courage of men.” This description highlights a narrative of bravery and commitment in the face of adversity, a stark contrast to the uncertainty surrounding other high-ranking officers.
The army has remained notably silent regarding the fate of Major General Muawiya Hamad. This silence has been amplified by claims circulating on RSF-affiliated social media platforms, which have published images purporting to show a slain officer identified as the division commander. These unverified reports have added another layer of confusion and concern to the unfolding situation.
Ambush During Withdrawal Claims Senior Officers
Further details emerging from military sources suggest a devastating ambush occurred during the army’s withdrawal from Babanusa. According to a report from Sudan Tribune on December 2nd, an army convoy was targeted by the RSF. This attack is understood to have resulted in the deaths of several senior officers.
Key casualties confirmed or reported include:
- The division’s second-in-command, Major General Abdel Majid Ahmed Al-Haj.
- The commander of the 170th Artillery Brigade.
- An unspecified number of soldiers.
The precise circumstances of this ambush underscore the perilous nature of military operations in the region and the significant losses being incurred by the Sudanese army.
A Survivor’s Journey to South Sudan
Amidst the confirmed casualties and uncertain fates, at least one senior officer is reported to have survived the withdrawal and subsequent engagements. Brigadier General Hassan Darmoud, the commander of the 89th Brigade, is said to have successfully reached South Sudan along with a contingent of officers and soldiers.
His arrival in South Sudan was reportedly met by commanders of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). A video clip circulating online appears to show Brigadier General Darmoud being received, providing a visual confirmation of his survival and the movement of Sudanese military personnel across the border. This development highlights the complex cross-border implications of the conflict and the potential for refuge or further entanglement with regional military forces. The ongoing volatility in West Kordofan and the broader Sudanese conflict continue to pose significant humanitarian and security challenges.
