Sudan: Flights suspended, internet partially cut amid unrest in Khartoum June 3 /update 83

Event

Media sources indicate Khartoum International Airport (KRT) has suspended all flight operations on Monday, June 3, after security forces assaulted and dispersed the sit-in protest camp outside the Sudanese Defense Ministry in Khartoum on Monday morning (local time). At least 13 people were killed and 116 others were wounded after security forces stormed the protest site - the deadliest violent incident since former President Omar al-Bashir was ousted from office in April. EgyptAir and Emirates airlines have suspended flights to Khartoum until further notice due to the violent unrest.

Internet service was partially cut in Sudan amid the security forces operation Monday morning, with internet service providers MTN and Mobitel (ZAIN) affected. Connectivity was restored on MTN's network and Mobitel (ZAIN) service was partially restored as the operation concluded. The assault reportedly prompted protesters in Khartoum and Omdurman to obstruct roads with burning tires and rocks; protester-erected roadblocks were also reported in Atbara. Security forces deployed to central Khartoum and closed roads in an apparent attempt to block demonstrators from reaching the sit-in protest site; demonstrators in the capital reportedly threw rocks at security forces, who responded by firing live ammunition. American personnel at the US Embassy have been advised to shelter in place.

Additional 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

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.