Heglig Oilfield Seized by RSF Amidst Ongoing Sudanese Conflict. Khartoum, Sudan — December 8, 2025 The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan has claimed the seizure of the strategic Heglig oilfield in South Kordofan province, marking a significant expansion of their control in the region. This development follows a statement from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) indicating that they have withdrawn from the area.
According to the RSF, the takeover occurred under the coordination of Youssef Alian, the head of the RSF — affiliated “civil administration” in the area. Alian stated that a specialized force was prepared to secure the Heglig field and protect oil installations. Heglig, Sudan’s largest oilfield, is also the main processing facility for neighboring South Sudan’s oil exports.
The RSF’s eastward and southward push, starting from the Darfur region, where they took full control last month, appears to be part of a broader strategy. This expansion could provide significant funding opportunities, particularly as central Sudan is a major agricultural center.
Additionally, the region is rich in gold reserves and oil, with Heglig lying in the far south of Kordofan.
In recent weeks, fierce fighting has erupted as the RSF and SAF struggle for territory.
In August, drone strikes prompted authorities to temporarily halt operations at the field.
An army source confirmed the capture of Heglig to the reports news agency, explaining that SAF troops withdrew to protect the oil facilities and prevent damage.
The RSF’s statement highlighted the strategic importance of the Heglig oil region, emphasizing it as a pivotal point in the liberation of the entire homeland.
An unnamed engineer confirmed the evacuation of the army and workers from the oilfield to South Sudan, with the processing plant for South Sudanese oil also shut down. Sudan has been embroiled in civil war since April 2023, with the conflict resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and over 12 million displacements, according to the United Nations.
Approximately 30 million people are in need of humanitarian aid.
Further details are expected as the situation remains developing.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
