JOIN USIndia is preparing to evacuate its citizens from strife-torn South Sudan, where fight between rival factions of soldiers resulted in the death of close to 300 people.
New Delhi also issued a travel advisory asking Indian nationals to avoid travelling to South Sudan unless the situation improves in the landlocked nation in north-eastern Africa.
At least 272 people were killed in and around Juba, the capital of South Sudan, since Thursday as the troops owing allegiance to the country’s President Salva Kiir clashed with the rebel soldiers loyal to first Vice-President Riek Macher.
MEA reviews situation
“We have reports of gun fire and fighting on the streets of Juba making any movement virtually impossible,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated in New Delhi. The MEA noted that the security situation in and around Juba, the capital of South Sudan, deteriorated since Thursday, when the fight between rival troops broke out.
The Embassy of India in Juba also asked Indian citizens living in South Sudan but now desirous to leave the country to register themselves with the mission so that necessary arrangement for evacuation could be made.
Over 600 Indian nationals live in South Sudan. While some have set up businesses in Juba, others are working for various companies. A small number of Indian nationals also work in Christian missionary organisations and non-profit organisations in South Sudan.
In addition, nearly 2,000 Indian Army personnel, 31 police officers and some civilian officials are taking part in the United Nations peacekeeping operations in South Sudan.
The Embassy of India in Juba issued an advisory, asking Indian citizens in South Sudan capital to take all possible precautions and avoid non-essential travel and movements during the next 48 hours.