Authorities in South Sudan have imposed a nightly curfew following violent attacks on Sudanese nationals, which resulted in casualties and property destruction. This unrest reflects broader humanitarian and ethnic challenges stemming from the ongoing crisis in Sudan. A significant police presence is in effect in response to these tensions, with reports of several attacks on Sudanese-owned businesses.
Amid escalating tensions in South Sudan, authorities have imposed a nightly curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM to mitigate violence following revenge attacks on Sudanese nationals and their businesses. This decision comes after three people were killed and seven injured in clashes involving security personnel in Juba and Aweil. Local officials reported the arson of three houses belonging to Sudanese nationals in Aweil, prompting enhanced police presence to protect Sudanese traders now receiving shelter at a police station.
The surge in violence correlates with increasing numbers of Sudanese refugees seeking safety in South Sudan due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan exacerbated by conflicts that began in April 2023. The United Nations reports that approximately 25 million individuals in Sudan urgently need food and aid, following the flare-ups of ethnic violence.
Eyewitness footage has circulated, allegedly depicting the killing of South Sudanese civilians by Sudanese soldiers in Gezira State. Rights groups have confirmed at least 13 fatalities from targeted ethnic attacks. Additionally, historic racism against darker-skinned individuals creates a volatile atmosphere, as violence against these communities continues, reminiscent of the slave raids reported until 2005.
Reactions to the footage incited anger among South Sudanese citizens who retaliated by attacking Sudanese-owned businesses in Juba and other regions on Thursday. The situation spiraled into chaos, with numerous arrests made by the police in an effort to restore order as gunfire echoed through the night.
As a result of the unrest, Juba’s major market and many local businesses remain closed, leading to a significant spike in bread prices. Police are vigorously pursuing mobs of young men inciting violence against Sudanese residents across various neighborhoods. Reports of confrontations also emerged in Wau and other cities, highlighting widespread unrest, though independent verification of these events remains unattainable.
In this precarious environment, authorities are striving to establish security for both South Sudanese citizens and Sudanese immigrants amid rising inter-ethnic tensions and economic challenges.
The ongoing crisis in Sudan has driven many Sudanese to seek refuge in South Sudan, compounding the existing tensions between the two nations. Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, ethnic and political disputes have persisted, fueled by historical grievances and ongoing humanitarian disasters. The recent spike in violence underscores ancient divisions and exacerbates economic difficulties in South Sudan as businesses are targeted based on ethnicity.
In conclusion, the curfew in South Sudan highlights the urgent need for measures to quell rising tensions following attacks on Sudanese individuals and properties. The evolving humanitarian situation in Sudan, characterized by widespread violence and displacement, necessitates careful monitoring and response by both South Sudanese authorities and the international community. Sustained peace and security in the region remain critical to preventing further escalation.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
