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The platforms and outlets affiliated with the rebel militia have published a photo of the militia leader Hemedti in an undisclosed location, surrounded by a security force. This marks his second appearance in the field—the first being on the afternoon of April 15, 2023, near the Republican Palace. If that was confirmed information, then this one is subject to scrutiny.
Before that, websites circulated a video clip showing a group of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) rebels listening to a speech from “Hemedti.” Then, some gathered around a vehicle, chanting “the commander,” and from it descended a short man—was that Habeeb Hareeka? So where is Hemedti?
In a previous analysis, I discussed Hemedti’s movements throughout 2023 and 2024, which ranged between hiding in homes in Khartoum, residing in the United Arab Emirates, then conducting political tours and placing bets with the FFC (Forces of Freedom and Change) group throughout 2024, followed by regional visits in Africa, and finally returning to the field again.
Two weeks ago, one of his advisors said that Hemedti was somewhere between Kordofan and Darfur. Though this seemed like a ploy to mislead, it aligned with his usual movements. Since June 2023, Abdelrahim left Khartoum and the military operations theater for the role of mobilization, rallying, and building social alliances—particularly with foreign mercenary groups deep in Africa. He only participated in the attacks on Nyala and El Fasher, while Hemedti focused on directing field operations in Al-Jazira State, the refinery, Jebel Aulia, and East Nile.
According to these indicators, it is confirmed that Hemedti was near the cities of Al-Nuhud, Al-Khuwai, and Al-Dibaybat during live operations, but he did not approach the battle of Babanusa.
Recently, the army’s operations have become more precise in targeting the militia’s criminal leaders. This has caused panic among the militia’s command, especially following impactful strikes in Nyala, which led to the destruction of Janjaweed equipment and weapons. There has also been widespread talk of highly important mercenaries being eliminated. This has shaken the militia’s confidence, and its leaders’ movements have become more secretive, hiding in ravines, creeks, and isolated areas.
In one of his latest recordings, Hemedti said, “In their last meetings—referring to Burhan and his group—they said Hemedti and Abdelrahim must be eliminated.” What Hemedti may not realize is that he has been under surveillance since the moment he rebelled. Abdelrahim, on the other hand, has narrowly escaped capture multiple times—once even abandoning his vehicle with the engine still running and fleeing on foot.
The most recent chase involved the destruction of their residence just moments before their escape. Hemedti was reportedly in a meeting with Hudhaifa Abu Noba. It was widely rumored that he had been killed, to the extent that Hudhaifa’s father suffered a stroke from the shock, was transferred to Juba, and died there on June 21, 2025.
On the afternoon of April 15, 2023, Hemedti, leader of the RSF rebels, gave an interview to Al Arabiya, saying, “The only option for Burhan is to surrender, that’s it—no negotiations.” Four days later, his deputy Abdelrahim Dagalo was seen bragging on camera, saying, “We want to tie up Burhan and his group and hand them to the commander”—meaning Hemedti. That was the scene two years ago.
Today, Hemedti reappears in hiding, surrounded by a conspicuous military force. His face appears softer—he is clearly not on the battlefield.
And the more he moves, the closer he comes to his end.
Dr. Ibrahim Al-Siddiq Ali
June 22, 2025