Deputy Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division Shendi, Brigadier General Omar Al-Sir, in an Interview with (Sudan Events): “We downed 30 suicide drones over Shendi”

Brigadier General Omar Al-Sir Ali Mohammed, Deputy Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division in Shendi, assured that the security situation in Shendi is stable. Brigadier General Omar Al-Sir stated in an interview with (Al-Ahdath) that security forces are working in perfect harmony for the dignity of the battle and the defeat of the enemy. He commended the role of joint forces in Shendi, saying, “We salute and honor the joint forces for their efforts in recent times.” He revealed the regulation of joint forces as a step toward implementing the security arrangements stipulated in the Juba Agreement.

He disclosed the downing of approximately 28-30 suicide drones in Shendi, attributing the targeting of Shendi to attempts to destabilize security and peace. He reassured that Rapid Support Forces (RSF) members who surrendered to the 3rd Infantry Division in Shendi are handled professionally, with those individuals now turned over to their respective authorities.

Brigadier General Omar Al-Sir announced that a significant number of fifth-column elements within the armed forces have been identified. “All fifth columnists are fully under control,” he added. He pointed out that figures like Osman Bello, dismissed from the armed forces, hold tribal prejudices against the military and engage in drug and alcohol trade.

Brigadier General Omar confirmed that security operations are underway in the Hajar Al-Asal area with well-planned measures to ensure full stability, placing responsibility on certain local groups for contributing to the area’s unrest. He praised the honorable citizens of Hajar Al-Asal for their dedication to their region and for many arming themselves to defend their land.

He lauded the national media’s role, noting that “the media is no less important than drones, aircraft, and artillery.” More details follow in his statements.

We assure all citizens that security is stable and improving daily. We have a comprehensive and well-coordinated plan to secure the city from multiple fronts, including external, internal, and safe cells. The talk about Shendi being under threat is all false and just rumors spread by the enemy’s media. But we reassure citizens that we are in our best condition security-wise, despite known challenges.

It’s confirmed that Shendi, after the Omdurman airbase, is one of Sudan’s most targeted cities, with approximately 28-30 suicide drones attempting to reach it. However, due to our security and our men, the militia has been unable to breach Shendi’s borders. The drones aim to disturb security, as they cannot achieve their goal of creating chaos and displacing citizens.

Given Shendi’s security, RSF members intending to surrender often choose to come here. Intelligence and security forces help facilitate this process. Any weapons or equipment they bring are confiscated, and the individuals are then evaluated. Currently, none of these individuals are held in prisons; we handle them professionally, ensuring that each is placed with the relevant authority or unit.

Wars often expose hidden agendas and loyalties. Despite the difficulties, this conflict has helped distinguish between loyal and disloyal forces. We’ve identified a considerable number of fifth-column individuals within the ranks, dealt with them legally, and, if confirmed as traitors, handed them over to the relevant authorities or detained them.

Shendi is now much safer, thanks to our efforts in apprehending most sleeper cells within the city with the help of military intelligence. We also commend the community for reporting suspicious activities.

There was a lot of initial friction between the joint forces and the citizens, given that many of these forces came from rural areas. However, they have integrated well, now operate harmoniously with the army, and follow commands as though they were part of the armed forces.

The militias use scare tactics to drive people out of their homes, as seen in Medani and other areas. Some people from certain tribes assist the enemy and act as fifth-column elements, contributing to the disturbances in Hajar Al-Asal.

Since the Commander General announced mobilization, we have opened camps in the Nile River State and established Brigade Al-Karama with 1,500 volunteers, equipped with specialized training in sniper tactics, drones, and urban warfare.

In the 3rd Infantry Division, we prioritize media partnerships across all platforms. The role of morale guidance and media has become as vital as aircraft, drones, and artillery.

We sympathize with the suffering of our displaced fellow citizens. We have coordinated with the security committee to ensure all necessary security, shelter, and logistical needs are met, including food and medical care.

We have implemented strict inspection procedures for everyone entering Shendi to prevent potential fifth-column elements or collaborators from slipping through.