Multiple sources indicated that the Khartoum government has transported new military equipment to its forces stationed at Malkan, Geissan and outskirts of Kurmuk areas in Blue Nile State over the last few days.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, civilians expressed fear that fighting could erupt between the government troops and SPLA-North rebels in Blue Nile and South Kordofan States after peace talks adjourned in Addis Ababa.

In Kadugli, several citizens reported that military reinforcements have arrived, saying tanks and military vehicles arrived in Kadugli, some stationed on eastern side.

The claims could not be independently verified.

Defense Minister Awad Ibnauf recently reiterated his forces' readiness to liberate areas controlled by SPLA-North. He told members of parliament that the army will liberate those areas through military operations.

Meanwhile, Presidential Assistant Mahmoud Ibrahim Hamid said the ceasefire announced by the government last September has expired.