21 Sep 2021 | 06:10 PM UTC
Sudan: Heightened security likely to continue through early October in Khartoum following failed coup early Sept. 21 /update 2
Increased security likely to persist through early October in Khartoum, Sudan, following reported failed coup early Sept. 21.
Event
Authorities are likely to maintain heightened security in Khartoum, Sudan, through early October after a reported coup attempt early Sept. 21. The perpetrators unsuccessfully attempted to take over the state radio building in Omdurman and the military command headquarters in Khartoum. Sudanese government officials said more than 40 military officers involved in the plot had been arrested.
The government will almost certainly continue to deploy additional security personnel in Khartoum until the situation stabilizes. Tight security is likely at key government buildings and near critical infrastructure. Authorities may implement additional security measures in Khartoum, including erecting checkpoints in parts of the city and carrying out random vehicle searches. Officials could also impose an overnight curfew if the situation deteriorates.
Context
Sudanese authorities blamed supporters of former President Omar al-Bashir (in power 1989-2019) for the failed coup. Bashir's mismanagement of the economy and low tolerance for dissent drove widespread popular anger against his rule which eventually erupted in a wave of sustained large-scale anti-government protests in 2018 and 2019. After losing control of the situation and the confidence of the security forces, his traditional power base, Bashir was ousted in a coup d'etat in April 2019 and a military transitional council took power. Military leaders and opposition groups have since formed a transitional administration to prepare for planned democratic elections in 2022, but tensions between them, and within the opposition movement, have created significant uncertainty around elements of the transition process.
Advice
Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Heed the instructions of security forces. Travel with personal identification documents to facilitate transit through checkpoints. Liaise with trusted local contacts before traveling to or within Khartoum. Reconfirm all transport services before departure and avoid travel all night.
