27 Sep 2018 | 03:05 PM UTC
Sudan: Protests possible in River Nile state after arrest of 100 traders
At least 100 traders were arrested in Atbara (River Nile state) on Sep. 25 in crackdown over price increases; protests possible in the coming days
Event
Security forces arrested over 100 traders in Atbara (River Nile state) on Tuesday, September 25, after the vendors refused the post increased prices on their goods. Authorities shut down the market following the protest and warned that merchants throughout River Nile state will have until October 1 to comply with the new regulation. Related protests and demonstrations are possible in the coming days. A heightened security and disruptions are expected near any demonstration site.
Context
The economy continues to suffer from surging inflation, which reached 66.8 percent in August. The government has begun to implement a number of broad-based economic reforms in line with recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in an attempt to promote economic growth. Various protests have erupted in Sudanese cities since early January due to price hikes, notably in Khartoum, Khartoum North, and Omdurman.
Advice
Individuals present in Sudan, especially West Nile state, are advised to keep abreast of the situation, remain vigilant, and avoid all demonstrations as violence may flare up without warning.
On a more general note, many Western governments advise against non-essential travel to Sudan and against all travel to certain regions, including the five Darfur states, South Kordofan, Blue Nile, certain areas of North Kordofan, the Djebel Ouanat region, Dinder National Park, and Sennar state.
