SUDAN’S armed forces had to deny reports today that they were plotting a coup to coincide with the first anniversary of the country’s sit-in protests, which led to the resignation of president Omar al-Bashir last year.

Senior sources inside the country indicated that moves were being made by forces loyal to Mr Bashir to launch a military coup and regain control of the country following last year’s revolution.

But Sudanese armed forces spokesman Brigadier General Amer Mohamed Al-Hassan denied the charges.

“There are no indications of a possible coup d’etat, no arrests, and the armed forces are operating normally.

“All forces are currently arranging themselves to contribute effectively to fighting the corona pandemic,” he insisted.

Numerous sources had suggested that there were “intensive movements” being made by those linked to the former regime, raising fears of an attempted coup against Sudan’s transitional government.

The Sudanese administration decided to take precautionary measures, including making arrests, ending leave for officers and soldiers and mobilising heavy guards to protect prominent figures and strategic positions.

Earlier this year the government faced a stand-off with members of the security services over new contracts.

It was the first confrontation between the feared National Intelligence & Security Service (Niss), the powerful security arm of Mr Bashir’s government, and the new administration.

Niss had previously co-ordinated a violent crackdown on protesters who were demanding the resignation of Mr Bashir’s government and a transfer to civilian democracy.

Hundreds were killed as security forces cleared a sit-in protest camp in central Khartoum, with members of the feared Rapid Support Forces going on the rampage.

A transitional government consisting of members of the armed forces and figures from the opposition Sudanese Professionals Association came into effect in August 2019. It has been tasked with preparing civilian elections within three years.