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The violence erupted after graphic videos emerged online showing Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and allied militias executing civilians in Wad Madani, a city in central Sudan. Among the victims were South Sudanese nationals.
Speaking to Sudans Post on Friday evening, Northern Bahr el Ghazal police commissioner Basilio Thomas Wani said protesters targeted Sudanese nationals and looted goods belonging to people they perceived as “Arabs.”
“Many shops have been vandalized or looted. Young men are targeting Arabs, and we have to rescue their lives first. They also took some items, which we could not confirm at this stage,” he told Sudans Post on phone.
Wani said the violence had spread to other parts of the state, including Wanyjok and Nyamlel, located in Aweil East and Aweil West, respectively.
A nationwide curfew has been imposed to quell the unrest, which began in the capital Juba with similar activities. Activists have also urged President Salva Kiir Mayardit to address the nation and take steps to de-escalate tensions between South Sudan and Sudan.
The videos of the atrocities in Wad Madani sparked widespread outrage in South Sudan, leading to protests in major cities. Demonstrators targeted Sudanese-owned businesses and individuals.
In a statement following the incidents, President Kiir has called for calm and urged citizens not to resort to violence.
However, clashes between protesters and security forces have already resulted in casualties. Three people have been killed and seven wounded in Juba, according to police. Three houses belonging to Sudanese nationals were also set on fire in Aweil, according to the BBC.
