Rebels, Sudanese army clash in North Darfur

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Sudan Liberation Army led by Abdel Wahid (SLA-AW) have reportedly clashed in Mellit in North Darfur. A total of 18 people from both sides were killed, the rebels spokesman claims. In a statement issued on Saturday, the spokesperson for the SLM-AW, Abdelrahim Nimr, reported that the movement took control of Mellit town on Friday. According to Nimr, 16 militiamen were killed and a number of vehicles loaded with weapons and ammunition seized. Two of the movement’s troops were killed. Nimr added that the SLA-troops evacuated the town on Saturday. SAF Spokesperson, Al Sawarmi Khalid Saad, in a statement issued on Saturday evening said his forces killed five SLA-AW rebels during a pursuit to recover two vehicles the rebels had captured after ambushing a patrol, 2km outside the town of Mellit. Saad did not mention casualties among the army troops but affirmed they recovered one vehicle, adding that the army is pursuing the SLA-AW troops. File photo Related:LJM-Wafi ‘kill 10 Sudanese troops’ in East Jebel Marra ambush (22 October 2013)Battles between SAF and rebels leave 81 dead (20 September 2013)