A drone strike conducted on Tuesday targeted a gathering for Ramadan iftar, the evening meal to break the fast, hosted by members of the Al-Baraa Bin Malik Brigade in Atbara, River Nile State, located in northern Sudan. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 12 individuals and left over 30 others wounded.
The Al-Baraa Bin Malik Brigade, known for its alignment with Islamist groups and former regime figures, plays a significant role in supporting the Sudanese army in its conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Notably, this strike represents the first instance of the brigade being targeted outside the capital city of Khartoum.
According to security sources cited by Sudan Tribune, the iftar gathering had invited battalion commanders from various Sudanese states.
While officials in the River Nile State have not disclosed details regarding the origin of the drone or the identities of the attackers, Sudan Tribune has obtained information suggesting that the drone was launched from the Akkad area, located approximately 11 kilometers south of Atbara.
Eyewitnesses in Atbara reported that the bombing occurred shortly after the iftar meal concluded. Notably, government officials were reportedly in attendance at the event, held in a central location near the main market and the Central Bank.
Concerns have been raised regarding a potential rise in the death toll due to the severity of injuries among those transported to hospitals in Atbara and nearby police facilities.
Sources within Atbara have indicated to Sudan Tribune that Al-Misbah Abu Zaid, the commander of the Al-Baraa Battalion, was initially present at the gathering but left shortly before the incident. A video circulating on social media later depicted him visiting a hospital to check on the wounded.
The aftermath of the attack was marked by charred bodies and injured victims. Residents residing near the blast site reported hearing a loud explosion and observed damage to nearby buildings, including the Omdurman National Bank.
Security forces promptly mobilized around the area, establishing a perimeter around the Atbara market. Additionally, tanks and a substantial military presence were deployed on the Umm Al-Tuyour bridge, located south of Atbara, as well as the old bridge connecting Atbara to Al-Damer.
Eyewitnesses recounted that military forces restricted vehicular access into the city, requiring vehicles to await clearance before proceeding.
Subsequent reports indicated that security forces detained suspects in the Akkad area for further interrogation.
As of the time of reporting, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
