Sudan: Death toll rises to 60 from military crackdown in Khartoum as of June 5 /update 85

Event

A doctors committee linked to the opposition in Sudan has reported that the death toll from the violent security forces crackdown during the June 3 sit-in in Khartoum has risen to at least 60 as of Wednesday, June 5.

On Wednesday, the Transitional Military Council (TMC) has announced he would resume talks with the main opposition coalition, the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF), after previously announcing the cancelation of talks and previous agreements, and the organisation of elections within a period of nine months. In the meantime, the opposition has called on its supporters to continue protesting to denounce the organisation of the elections. An increased security presence remains deployed in central Khartoum and some roads remain blocked.

Operations at Khartoum International Airport (KRT) remain at standstill as of Wednesday, June 5; EgyptAir, Kenya Airways, and Emirates airlines have suspended flights to Khartoum until further notice due to the violent unrest. Internet service and mobile network also remain cut until further notice. 

Further protests and associated clashes between protesters and security forces are to be expected in Sudan, particularly in Khartoum and Omdurman, over the coming days and weeks. Localized transportation and business disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.

Context

Sudanese security and affiliated militia forces violently dispersed a sit-in demonstration in Khartoum on June 3, prompting violent protests in the neighboring city of Omdurman and in Atbara. The Khartoum International Airport (KRT) has suspended all flight operations following the violent crawkdown on June 3. 

President Omar al-Bashir was removed from office on April 11 following a military coup. The military then dissolved the government, suspended the constitution, and announced it would rule the country for two years in a transitional government - known as the Transitional Military Council (TMC) - after which time fresh presidential elections would be held. Sit-in demonstrations have continued in Khartoum as activists demand increased civilian participation in negotiations. The military recently warned of "danger" to the ongoing sit-in protests following several weeks of sporadic violence.

A three-month state of emergency remains in place and Sudanese border crossings have been closed until further notice. The US State Department issued a notice on April 11 calling for all non-emergency government employees to evacuate from Sudan as a precaution. US diplomatic authorities have also warned US citizens to refrain from all travel to the country until further notice.

Advice

Individuals in Sudan, and particularly those in Khartoum and Omdurman, are advised to closely monitor the situation, anticipate continued security operations and significant transportation disruptions, refrain from nonessential movement, and be prepared for continued violence.