The Sudanese army successfully shot down a transport plane at Nyala airport, a strategic base held by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur. The aircraft, reportedly chartered through entities backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was found to be carrying 40 Colombian mercenaries along with a significant cache of weapons and military equipment intended for the RSF paramilitary group. All passengers on board were killed, and the plane was completely destroyed.
Sudan’s state television described the attack as a “blatant message” to external powers, underscoring that “Sudanese autonomy is a red line” that cannot be crossed without consequences. The operation marked a clear warning against foreign interference amid the ongoing and complex internal power struggle.
Colombia’s government indirectly confirmed the presence of its nationals in the conflict by instructing its ambassador in Egypt to verify casualty figures and facilitate the repatriation of the bodies. This admission highlights the murky involvement of foreign mercenaries in the Sudanese war, complicating an already volatile battlefield.
The plane’s journey was closely monitored and traced back to Bosaso airport, located in Somalia’s semi-autonomous Puntland region. The UAE’s increasing influence in the Horn of Africa is evident through its control of the Bosaso port under a concession agreement, which has raised suspicions about the country’s role in facilitating arms and mercenary movements into Sudan.
Reports indicate that mercenaries operating in Sudan were under strict prohibitions against taking photos or videos, suggesting deliberate efforts to keep troop deployments and military logistics secret from public and international scrutiny.
Further strikes by Sudanese forces targeted RSF arms depots and a training camp reportedly run by the Colombian mercenaries, signaling a broader offensive against foreign-backed elements within the RSF.
In the immediate aftermath of these developments, the UAE abruptly suspended all flights to Sudan. This move comes amid intensifying pressure and growing evidence linking the UAE to the escalating conflict, raising questions about its direct involvement.
The incident has spotlighted Sudan as a proxy battleground, with powerful external players such as Turkey and the UAE maneuvering behind the scenes. As the conflict intensifies, Sudanese sovereignty faces increasing challenges from foreign influence and mercenary involvement, complicating prospects for peace and stability in the region.
