THE AFRICA TIMES | SOUTH SUDAN —
Hundreds of Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) soldiers entered South Sudan’s Unity State on Monday. This occurred after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) captured the Heglig oil fields.
## SAF Soldiers Seek Refuge
South Sudanese officials in Unity State confirmed the soldiers’ arrival in Pan Akuach. The soldiers fled after the RSF advance on Heglig.
A security official stated that the troops crossed with weapons and vehicles. The South Sudan army has secured these for safety.
### Details of the Cross-Border Arrival
“They entered our territory seeking safety,” the official stated. “They arrived with their weapons.” The official said weapons and vehicles have been secured for everyone’s safety. The soldiers are in a secure location while their status is assessed.
## Implications of the Heglig Capture
This is among the largest cross-border military movements since Sudan’s conflict escalated in 2023. A similar incident occurred last year with soldiers from the 92nd Infantry Brigade.
Heglig’s location, situated along the disputed Sudan-South Sudan border, is crucial. It serves as the primary transit route for South Sudan’s crude oil exports to Port Sudan.
### Economic Concerns
The capture of Heglig has generated concerns in Juba. There are worries about potential disruptions to oil flows. Such disruptions could further strain South Sudan’s economy.
## RSF’s Actions and Reactions
The RSF announced on Monday that they had taken full control of the Heglig oil zone. SAF units had withdrawn. The RSF released videos showing fighters inside the Sudanese army headquarters.
Additional images show RSF personnel briefly entering Pan Akuach. SAF soldiers were also seen resting in Pan Akuach.
### Official Statements and Border Security
The Sudanese army has not yet commented on the retreat or its soldiers’ status. South Sudanese authorities reported no confrontation between the RSF and SSPDF. They confirmed RSF units approached the border and later withdrew.
