South Sudan’s Inspector General of Police, Gen. Abraham Manyuat, imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Friday after a night of violent protests over the reported killings of South Sudanese civilians in Sudan.
Protests erupted across the country following the release of graphic videos showing members of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and allied militias allegedly executing civilians, including Sudanese, in different parts of Sudan’s Al Jazira State.
Speaking to journalists in Juba on Friday evening, general Manyuat highlighted the critical importance of maintaining security in Juba’s Custom and Konyo-Konyo markets during the recent protests.
He said that the two markets are major hubs for essential food supplies, holding approximately two-thirds of the city’s food commodities. Any disruption, such as looting or fires, could severely impact food availability, leading to shortages and price hikes.
“This morning, a number of protestors came in a big number, and they came specifically to Custom and Konyo-konyo markets and as you know these two markets contain two-thirds of food commodities,” he said.
According to him, it would not only harm ordinary citizens who rely on these markets for daily necessities but also strain government resources in managing the crisis.
“So, if these markets get looted or catch fire it will be disastrous and both citizens and government will face severe consequences,” he added.
He said a curfew had been imposed from 6:00PM to 6:00AM and will remain in effect until further notice to ensure public safety and allow law enforcement to maintain order.
While the police confirmed three deaths and seven injuries in Juba, reports indicate widespread looting and vandalism of businesses believed to be owned by Sudanese traders in the capital and other cities.
“Some youths were used for other purposes, and they have a clandestine agenda,” Manyuat said.
The police chief advised traders to close their businesses early and urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting any criminal activity.
The killings in Sudan have sparked widespread condemnation in South Sudan.
“It was disappointing and shocking that we receive reports, very gruesome reports, of the extermination, targeted killing of our citizens in Sudan,” said Oyet Nathaniel, First Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament.
Nathaniel said that despite the two countries’ shared history, Sudan continues to violate the principles of peaceful coexistence.
“The RSF and the Sudan Armed Forces bear responsibility for the actions of their forces,” he noted.
(Sudan Post)
