South Sudan has imposed a nightly curfew following violent attacks on Sudanese properties, resulting in fatalities and injuries. Police reported that three Sudanese homes were set on fire, exacerbating tensions in the capital, Juba. The unrest is fueled by ongoing humanitarian crises in Sudan, leading to escalated ethnic tensions in the region. Authorities are mobilizing police forces to protect Sudanese residents amid the violence.
In response to a series of violent attacks on Sudanese businesses and homes, officials in South Sudan have declared a nightly curfew aimed at restoring order. The police reported three fatalities and seven injuries resulting from violence in the capital, Juba, and the town of Aweil. Notably, three residences belonging to Sudanese nationals were also set ablaze in Aweil during the unrest.
From 6 PM to 6 AM local time, the curfew will prevent individuals from being on the streets to avoid further incidents of vandalism against public and private property, as stated by Inspector General Abraham Manyuat Peter. Compounding the tension, police in Juba reported the rescue of 45 Sudanese traders, who are now being sheltered at a police station for their safety.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has seen a growing influx of Sudanese citizens fleeing escalating conflict in Sudan, which has become a humanitarian crisis affecting approximately 25 million people who are in severe need of food and aid. The unrest has roots in longstanding ethnic tensions and incidences of targeted violence in Sudan, especially against those with darker skin.
Recent images depicting alleged Sudanese soldiers committing atrocities against South Sudanese civilians have ignited outrage. Many young men in South Sudan, disturbed by these incidents, engaged in violence against Sudanese-owned establishments, leading to widespread chaos in Juba and other cities. Local security forces responded with gunfire as they attempted to quell the uproar and protect vulnerable Sudanese residents.
Shops and markets in Juba, including Konyo Konyo market, were shuttered for safety, resulting in a dramatic rise in bread prices amidst limited supply. Moreover, reports of riots and looting have emerged from other regions, with police forces mobilizing to establish order and protect Sudanese nationals from further attacks. Meanwhile, spontaneous protests erupted in various towns across the country, revealing the extent of community anger and unrest.
This article discusses the aftermath of a series of violent incidents targeting Sudanese nationals in South Sudan. Following the outbreak of violence, the authorities implemented a curfew to prevent further attacks and to maintain stability. The context of these events is rooted in the recent humanitarian crisis in Sudan, resulting from a civil conflict and the migration of Sudanese individuals seeking refuge in South Sudan. The historical tension between ethnic groups also contributes to the present volatile situation.
The declaration of a curfew reflects the urgent need to restore peace in South Sudan amid rising tensions between South Sudanese and Sudanese nationals. Violent retaliatory actions taken by local youth against Sudanese-owned businesses highlight existing ethnic conflicts exacerbated by the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions in Sudan. The situation underscores the fragility of security and the challenges faced by authorities in safeguarding all communities amid such turmoil.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
