Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Khartoum (Agenzia Fides) - Nyala, the capital of South Darfur in western Sudan, is recovering from two days of violent protests that caused deaths and injuries.
A resident contacted by phone by the Catholic Radio Network (CRN) reported that the clashes began on July 30, when thousands of people took to the streets of Nyala to protest against a fare increase of public transport. The protest was started by students.
The most violent clashes occurred the following day. Authorities said that six people were killed in clashes with police.
According to the source of the CRN the victims could be 16.
The source of the Catholic network added that after the authorities closed primary and secondary schools as well as the university, calm returned to the streets of the city.
Since June 16, when students from the University of Khartoum took to the streets to protest against rising food prices, there have been popular demonstrations in Sudan, especially after the government announced an austerity plan that includes higher taxes and the elimination of subsidies for fuel. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 02/08/2012)
