By Canadian Press

Global Affairs warns against travel to Sudan, shuts embassy following coup

Apr 11, 2019 | 7:45 AM

OTTAWA — Global Affairs Canada is warning Canadians to avoid all travel to Sudan after the country’s longtime leader was ousted in a military coup.

The military arrested Omar al-Bashir on Thursday following months of protests and unrest, and ordered a state of emergency.

The declaration means security forces can search any building, put restrictions on movements and travel, or arrest anyone based on a suspicion of criminal activity.

An updated travel advisory from Global Affairs Canada released after the coup d’etat notes that protests are intensifying in Sudan and the security situation could deteriorate quickly.

Canadians in the country are being told to minimize their movements and avoid protests and demonstrations, which civil activists have vowed to continue.

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Culturally appropriate food goes beyond the ingredients on a plate

19h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: Whether building up or tearing down, Kamloops is what you make it

Dec 13, 2024

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: How to reduce food waste in Kamloops during the festive season

Dec 13, 2024

Those caught up in the protests should shelter in place until it is safe to leave, have an emergency supply of water and food, and make sure travel documents are in order, Global Affairs Canada says in the advisory.

Given the unrest and uncertainty, the government has closed the Canadian Embassy in Khartoum.

The military’s removal of al-Bashir came days after similar protests in Algeria forced Abdelaziz Bouteflika to resign as president.

An updated travel advisory to that country released last week says travellers should exercise a high degree of caution over politically motivated demonstrations and strikes throughout the country.

The Canadian Press