In brief
Tensions in South Sudan have led to a nightly curfew in Juba after deadly confrontations arose from revenge attacks targeting Sudanese nationals. Violence escalated following disturbing reports and footage of targeted killings of South Sudanese citizens, prompting local youth to retaliate.
A series of revenge attacks directed at Sudanese-owned businesses has resulted in a curfew declared by the police chief in South Sudan's capital, Juba. This move aims to quell rising tensions and violence that have recently shattered peace in the region. The unrest has led to the deaths of three individuals and injuries to seven, as reported by the police, who have yet to disclose the victims' nationalities.In the wake of these confrontations, three homes belonging to Sudanese nationals were incinerated in Aweil, highlighting the deepening animosities. Inspections by law enforcement mandated that no one would be permitted on the streets from 18:00 to 06:00 local time, a precautionary measure to "prevent any violations of public and private property," as stated by Insp Gen Abraham Manyuat Peter on Friday.Meanwhile, police reports indicated that 45 Sudanese traders in Juba are currently being sheltered in a police station for safety after they were rescued from potential harm. Since South Sudan's secession from Sudan in 2011, many Sudanese citizens have sought refuge in South Sudan due to ongoing conflicts in their homeland, which the UN has classified as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, with approximately 25 million individuals requiring urgent assistance.Recent disturbing footage allegedly depicts Sudanese soldiers committing violent acts against South Sudanese civilians in Wad Madani, with rights groups confirming the ethnic targeting of at least 13 individuals, including children. This has reignited historical grievances related to deep-rooted racial tensions in Sudan, where darker-skinned populations continue to face systemic discrimination.Following these revelations, agitated youth in South Sudan launched retaliatory attacks on Sudanese businesses in Juba and nearby regions. Gunfire rang out amidst the chaos, and local businesses, including the major Konyo Konyo market, have shuttered their doors. Prices of essential goods have surged, and police have increased their presence, particularly in neighborhoods heavily populated by Sudanese.Eyewitness accounts from Wau, the country's second-largest city, revealed that mobs attacked popular markets, inciting looting attempts. Security forces have responded with live ammunition to disperse these aggressive crowds. Concurrently, unrest also erupted in Tonj, provoking further demonstrations and confrontations.As the situation remains fluid, with significant police engagement to safeguard Sudanese citizens, it's uncertain how long the curfew will be in effect and whether calm can be restored in the capital and beyond.
