On January 17, 2025, angry youth in Kuajok, Warrap State, disrupted the market by looting Sudanese-owned shops in response to the deaths of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan. Eyewitnesses reported extensive looting while police fired into the air to control the situation, leading to no casualties. The Sudanese army condemned the violence, and South Sudan’s foreign ministry has acknowledged the report of events causing civilian deaths.
On January 17, 2025, a group of enraged youth halted operations at the Kuajok market in Warrap State, South Sudan, by looting shops and vandalizing property owned by Sudanese traders. This demonstration arose following the violent deaths of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan’s Gezira State after the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) took control of the town from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). An eyewitness reported that the unrest began around 6:00 am local time, with over 30 shops being looted. Police and other organized forces responded by firing shots into the air to disperse the crowd. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and authorities stepped in to safeguard the Sudanese traders. In response, the Sudanese army condemned the violence as “individual violations,” assuring accountability for the perpetrators. Furthermore, South Sudan’s foreign ministry stated that it has received a detailed report from its embassy in Sudan regarding the tragic events that caused loss of life among its citizens who were civilians.
The incident in Kuajok is rooted in rising tensions between South Sudan and Sudan following violent confrontations in Gezira State. These events have exacerbated community relations, as evidenced by the outrage of South Sudanese youth over the deaths of their compatriots. The context involves the takeover of the region by the SAF, leading to a demand for accountability from both military and government officials.
The Kuajok market shutdown by angry youth highlights the deep-seated frustrations stemming from recent violence in Sudan affecting South Sudanese nationals. The authorities’ quick intervention to protect traders and the Sudanese army’s condemnation of the unrest underline the delicate balance amidst ongoing tensions. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by both nations in fostering stability and ensuring the safety of their citizens.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
