Khartoum curfew imposed amid security concerns

May 13, 2024 (OMDURMAN) – The Acting Governor of Khartoum State, Ahmed Osman Hamza, issued an emergency order on Monday imposing a curfew across the state.

The curfew restricts the movement of people and vehicles from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM and bans all commercial activities and pedestrian movement from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM.

However, the state government currently only controls Omdurman and Karari localities, operating from a temporary office north of Omdurman.

The order cites security concerns as justification for protecting citizens.

Experts have voiced alarm over the security situation in government-controlled areas of Khartoum and other Sudanese cities. They argue that the current measures are insufficient to address the wartime threats facing the country, and are calling for a more robust security approach.

Law enforcement can seize vehicles and arrest individuals suspected of violating the curfew, with searches of suspected premises authorized. Violators face penalties of up to six months in prison or a fine, with doubled penalties for repeat offences.

This curfew follows the state of emergency declared by Acting Governor Hamza on May 2nd. The state of emergency established a security cell and addressed concerns related to foreign nationals. Military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan approved the state of emergency.