Explosion in Khartoum Linked to Landmine Remnant from Conflict

A loud explosion was heard in Khartoum and was later confirmed by authorities to have been caused by a landmine left over from the ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces. The blast, which occurred in the Burri area, caused no casualties or damage but highlights ongoing dangers from unexploded ordnance in the city.

A large explosion was heard on Friday in the military-controlled Sudanese capital, Khartoum, according to an AFP journalist and multiple witnesses, with authorities attributing the incident to a landmine left behind from the ongoing conflict.
The city has experienced a period of relative calm since the Sudanese army—engaged in a prolonged conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023—successfully regained control of the capital last year.
An AFP journalist reporting from Omdurman, Khartoum’s twin city located just across the Nile River, said a loud blast was heard coming from central parts of the capital. A resident in the city centre also described the incident as a “single, loud explosion,” noting that there were no immediate visible signs such as fire outbreaks or plumes of smoke. Several other residents in different parts of the capital confirmed hearing the explosion as well.
In an official statement, Sudanese police reported that the explosion occurred in the Burri neighbourhood in eastern Khartoum. Authorities explained that the blast was triggered by a landmine—identified as a remnant of the ongoing war—which detonated after some residents reportedly set fire to waste materials in the area.
Police further stated that no casualties were recorded and there was no material damage resulting from the explosion.
The Burri area is located close to several key strategic and military installations, including the Sudanese military’s General Command headquarters and Khartoum International Airport.
The United Nations has previously raised concerns about the presence of unexploded ordnance across Khartoum, warning that the city remains heavily contaminated with dangerous remnants of war. According to the UN, numerous landmines and unexploded devices have been discovered in various parts of the capital.
Many of these explosives were reportedly left behind by RSF fighters who seized control of the city during the early stages of the conflict. Although the army reclaimed Khartoum in March last year, the RSF has continued to carry out attacks, including drone strikes targeting military installations and civilian infrastructure within the capital.