South Sudan - January 2025

On 16 and 17 January, riots erupted in Juba and other parts of South Sudan following reports of South Sudanese nationals being killed in Sudan's El Gezira state earlier in the month. In retaliation, at least 16 Sudanese nationals were killed according to South Sudan police, while youths looted and vandalized shops owned by Sudanese individuals and burned several homes. In response, authorities imposed a nationwide dusk-to-dawn curfew starting on 17 January, which lasted for more than 10 days and was intended to restore security and prevent further destruction of property. Additionally, on 22 January, the National Communication Authority ordered internet service providers to block access to social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, for a minimum of 30 days, citing concerns over the spread of graphic videos depicting the reported killing of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan. However, the social media ban was lifted on 27 January after the removal of the material in question.

Sources: South Sudan National Communication Authority, Radio Tamazuj, Associated Press, Reuters (1), Reuters (2), Committee to Protect Journalists