Khartoum has instructed oil companies to begin shutting down the key pipeline transporting South Sudanese crude oil for export, citing a series of drone strikes blamed on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied groups. The decision, reportedly communicated in an official directive dated May 9, comes amid growing concern over the security of Sudan’s vital oil infrastructure.
According to officials, one of the latest attacks targeted pump station No. 5 operated by PETCO in the Al-Hudi area, causing what authorities described as significant damage. Another strike a day earlier allegedly hit a diesel storage facility used by Bashayer Pipeline Company (BAPCO) in White Nile state. These incidents have disrupted operations, leading to delays in shipments, power outages at port terminals, and fears of fuel shortages.
Sudan’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum stated that these attacks have inflicted “severe harm” on the economies of both Sudan and South Sudan, as well as on foreign investors. The ministry has called on PETCO and BAPCO to submit an expedited plan to facilitate