Abu Aqla Kikal

Abu Aqla Kaikal (, born 1971-1972)

Early life Kaikal originates from Butana in Central Sudan. He is a retired officer from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and founded the Sudan Shield Forces in 2022. Keikel became an activist and a key member of the executive office for the "Free Butana Forum," which focuses on Butana region affairs. which triggered a series of violent retaliatory attacks by the RSF on civilians in the Gezira State. These attacks have resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement.

On 2 May 2026, a suspected RSF drone strike on his residence in Al-Kahli Zaidan, Gezira State, killed his brother and five other relatives.

Sanctions

On 18 July 2025, Kaikal was sanctioned by the European Union, which determined that he is "responsible for actions and policies that threaten the peace, stability and security of Sudan. In addition, he is responsible for directing acts in Sudan that constitute serious human rights violations, and for obstructing the delivery of, access to and distribution of humanitarian assistance in Sudan." On 5 February 2026, Kaikal was also sanctioned by the United Kingdom over his role in the current conflict.