A protest led by angry youth in Kuajok resulted in the looting of Sudanese shops, sparked by the brutal killing of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan. Eyewitnesses reported the incident involved more than 30 shops being targeted, with police intervening to restore order. The Sudanese army condemned these actions and promised accountability, while South Sudan’s foreign ministry acknowledged the tragedy affecting its citizens.
On January 17, 2025, a group of agitated youth forcibly closed the Kuajok market in Warrap State, South Sudan, engaging in looting and vandalizing shops owned by Sudanese traders. This protest was incited by the recent violent killing of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan’s Gezira State, following a takeover of the area by the Sudan Armed Forces from the Rapid Support Forces. Eyewitnesses reported that the demonstration began around 6:00 AM, resulting in the looting of more than 30 shops, prompting police and organized forces to fire shots into the air to disperse the crowd. Although no injuries were reported, state authorities sought to protect the Sudanese merchants during the unrest. In response to these incidents, the Sudanese army condemned the actions, labeling them as “individual violations” and vowed to hold accountable those responsible. Additionally, South Sudan’s foreign ministry has acknowledged receipt of a detailed report from its embassy in Sudan concerning the tragic loss of life among its citizens who are non-combatants.
The recent unrest in Kuajok is rooted in ongoing tensions between Sudanese forces and the populace in Sudan’s Gezira State, where violent confrontations have led to grievous losses among South Sudanese nationals. The socioeconomic ties between South Sudan and Sudan complicate the dynamics, as many Sudanese traders operate in South Sudan and the youth’s frustrations have boiled over due to these tragic events. The actions taken by local youth reflect a larger sentiment regarding safety and justice in the face of increasing violence in the region.
The incident at the Kuajok market illustrates the volatile relationship between the communities in Warrap State and the Sudanese traders amidst ongoing violence in Sudan. Authorities’ quick intervention aims to prevent further escalation, while both the Sudanese army and South Sudan’s foreign ministry are actively addressing the underlying issues that triggered this unrest. Ensuring the safety of all citizens, particularly those holding non-combatant status, remains critical moving forward.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
