Local residents in Sudan’s Blue Nile State expressed concern at ‘mounting tensions’ between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Sudan People’s Liberation Army-North in the state.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj yesterday, several eyewitnesses confirmed the heavy deployment of government soldiers in the state, saying there was heavy military build-up.

They noted a full convoy of the organized forces was seen yesterday heading toward Kurmuk, Geissan and Dindir areas. According to the sources, clashes are likely to take place in those areas.

The latest military developments in Blue Nile come just two days after the announcement of the second phase of a decisive summer operation in Blue Nile, Darfur and Kordofan states by the Sudanese Defence Minister, who spoke before the parliament on Monday.