Location: Sudanese Armed Forces Headquarters in Khartoum and the surrounding area; Khartoum 2; the bridges in the Khartoum metropolitan area; metropolitan Khartoum (Khartoum, Omdurman, and Khartoum North) and other cities and locations across Sudan.
Event: The large demonstration at Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) Headquarters continues. The number of protesters has increased over the past two weeks with the arrival of protesters from regions outside of greater Khartoum. There are confirmed reports that recent protests have been met with violence in the form of live ammunition fire, teargas, and beatings with batons, resulting in deaths and injuries to protestors and security forces. Protests may occur at other locations at any time and without warning. In addition, both Sudanese government security forces and opposition groups may create temporary roadblocks throughout Khartoum.
On April 11, 2019, the Sudanese army announced the overthrow of the government of President Omar Al Bashir and the establishment of a transitional military council (TMC). Former opposition groups and the TMC are negotiating the composition of the civilian-led interim government and the timeline for transition to elections. The organizers of the protests have stated that the demonstration in front of SAF Headquarters will continue until a civilian-led interim government acceptable to the people is formed. There are also calls for acts of civil disobedience, including blocking roads and bridges, and strikes in different sectors of the economy.
Security forces have enhanced authority to detain and arrest anybody they deem to be undermining public order. Arbitrary detentions, including of foreigners, could occur. The Sudanese government does not recognize dual citizenship and is likely to consider U.S.-Sudanese dual citizens as Sudanese citizens only.
U.S. government personnel are required to conduct all movements in armored vehicles and only with prior approval from Embassy security. On April 11, 2019, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and all family members.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the areas of the demonstrations.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid crowds.
- Keep a low profile.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Notify friends and family of your safety.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Khartoum, Sudan
+ (249) (187) 022871
+ (249) (187) 022000 (after hours)
ACSKhartoum@state.gov
https://sd.usembassy.gov/ - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Sudan Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
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