South Sudan Imposes Curfew Amid Violence in Juba Following Allegations Against Sudan’s Army
South Sudan has enacted a nationwide curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. following deadly riots in Juba stemming from alleged killings of South Sudanese by Sudanese military forces. The unrest has resulted in fatalities and injuries, with authorities working to protect Sudanese nationals amid outreach to their government. President Salva Kiir called for calm to avoid misdirected anger towards Sudanese traders and refugees.
South Sudan’s police have announced a nationwide curfew effective from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily, beginning on Friday, following violence in the capital, Juba. This decision comes after rioting erupted over allegations of killings of South Sudanese civilians by the army and allied groups in Sudan. Police Chief Abraham Peter Manyuat emphasized that the curfew is aimed at restoring security and protecting property.
The rioting resulted in at least three fatalities and seven injuries, with victims reportedly attacked with bullets and machetes as youths targeted businesses owned by Sudanese nationals. In addition, three homes belonging to Sudanese individuals were reported burned in Aweil, located near the border with Sudan. Authorities have taken measures to ensure the safety of Sudanese people amid escalating tensions.
The unrest in Juba was provoked by accusations against Sudan’s military for targeting South Sudanese civilians during incidents in the city of Wad Madani, situated in Sudan’s Al-Jazira region. The Sudanese army condemned these actions, attributing them to “individual violations” amidst concerns raised by human rights organizations about ethnically motivated violence.
In response to the incidents, South Sudan’s Foreign Ministry summoned Sudan’s ambassador regarding the alleged killings. Furthermore, President Salva Kiir Mayardit urged the public to maintain composure and resist attributing blame to Sudanese traders and refugees currently in South Sudan, asserting that anger should not distort judgment.
Recent unrest in South Sudan highlights the fragile security situation and the complex relationship between the two nations. The rioting in Juba underscores the impact of alleged ethnic violence carried out by Sudanese military forces, which has provoked fears and retaliatory actions from the South Sudanese population. The government is working to ensure the safety of foreign nationals and prevent further escalation of violence, reflecting ongoing regional tensions stemming from historical grievances and human rights issues.
The imposition of a curfew in South Sudan is a significant response to civil unrest and the need for enhanced security following violent incidents attributed to ethnic tensions. Authorities are taking steps to manage the situation while attempting to ensure the safety of Sudanese nationals in South Sudan, emphasizing the importance of calm amid rising tensions. Continued dialogue and interventions from both governments are essential to address the underlying issues that provoke such widespread violence.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
