11 Jul 2021 | 03:22 PM UTC
Sudan: Officials likely to maintain heightened security in Port Sudan through mid-July following July 10 bombing /update 1
Officials are likely to maintain heightened security in Port Sudan, Sudan, through mid-July following July 10 bombing.
Event
Officials will likely maintain a heightened security presence in Port Sudan through mid-July following a bomb and shooting attack in the city, July 10. Unidentified assailants on motorcycles detonated at least one explosive device at the Amir Club in the city's Salbouna area. The blast killed three people and injured three others. One other person was shot and killed by the assailants after they fled the scene. Unconfirmed reports indicate that another device failed to detonate at the Al-Busairi Plaza Hotel. It is not clear if the two incidents are connected. There have been no claims of responsibility for the attacks. The motive is also unclear.
Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has reportedly dispatched a high-level delegation to the city to calm tensions that are linked to the July 10 attacks and recent communal tensions in the city. Anti-government unrest in response to insecurity and tribal tensions has reportedly escalated in recent days. Unconfirmed reports indicate that violence has left several people dead.
Officials will likely deploy additional patrols and checkpoints. The implementation of curfews and road closures is also possible. Further unrest is likely, either in response to security incidents or as part of ongoing anti-government protests in the city. Clashes between protesters and the security forces are possible at all gatherings. Security-related operations and any further unrest will likely continue to result in localized ground travel delays.
Advice
Liaise with trusted contacts before traveling to Port Sudan. Persons operating in the city should review security and contingency plans regularly and maintain contact with their diplomatic representation. Avoid all large gatherings and travel at night. Heed the directives of the local authorities. Abide by any movement restrictive measures. Plan for short-notice localized ground travel delays in response to security incidents.
