Security Alert: Security Update Oct 29

Event:

The U.S. Embassy continues to receive reports of sporadic protests in and around Khartoum, with unconfirmed reports of a confrontation in Omdurman between protestors and military forces resulting in deaths and injuries. Roadblocks continue to be erected by protesters and the military is maintaining several checkpoints around the city. Movement in parts of Khartoum is severely restricted. The Embassy has received reports that the road connecting Egypt and Sudan has been blocked by protesters. The road to Port Sudan has also been blocked.

Travel Information:

The Embassy has received confirmation from airport management that Ethiopian flight 345 is departing this afternoon. Confirmation received that check-in begins at 12:00 noon. The flight is publicly listed at 3:45 p.m. but the Embassy has received reports it may depart earlier at 3:00.

Roads leading to the airport may not be safe. The Embassy has received reports of a general strike among airport workers, as well as many Sudanese pilots. These protests and internet outages hamper the commercial availability of flights. Crowds may develop at the airport as flights are made available. The flight listed above is not guaranteed to depart.  The Embassy received unconfirmed reports that the airport was not overly crowded last night, October 28, during the departure of several flights. Ensuring the availability of future air travel remains a priority for the U.S. Embassy.

Actions to Take:

  • Shelter in place to the extent possible.
  • Do not to travel to the airport without 1) direct confirmation of a reserved flight, 2) a reasonable expectation of safe and secure passage to the airport, and 3) confirmation from the U.S. Embassy that flights are in fact departing from the airport.
  • Do not come to the Embassy as all in-person services are suspended.
  • If you plan to travel, please obtain the appropriate COVID-19 test required by your destination.
  • Monitor local media for updates.

Assistance: