Sudan, Ethiopia: Officials close the Gallabat-Metema border crossing, April 3, following security incident, April 1

Event

Sudanese officials closed the Gallabat-Metema border crossing with Ethiopia, April 3, in response to attacks on Sudanese customs officials April 1. It is not clear how long the closure will last. Further information on the nature of the April 1 attack is unavailable. The identity of the attackers is unclear.

Heightened security measures are likely on both sides of the border in the coming days. The closure of the crossing may result in goods shortages in Ethiopia. Protests by traders in the area in response to the attack and the closure are possible. Should demonstrations occur, clashes between protesters and local security forces are likely. Should tensions between Ethiopian and Sudanese officials increase further, confrontations between the two sides can not be discounted.

Advice

Reconfirm the status of the crossing before travel or processing cargo shipments through the area. Maintain heightened levels of vigilance in the area. Avoid concentrations of security personnel and protests.