The government of the United Kingdom urged on Wednesday its citizens currently in South Sudan to leave the country while warning those planning to visit the young African country, citing deteriorating security situation.
“The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to South Sudan. If you are in South Sudan, you should leave if it’s safe to do so,” said a letter of the warning seen by media reports today.
The report by the foreign and commonwealth office cited reports of fighting between South Sudan parties and the surge in criminal acts in the country’s capital Juba saying there has not been an official curfew by the government.
“There are daily reports of fighting between armed groups across the country, and regular reports of serious criminality in Juba.
“There’s no official government curfew in Juba, but the British Embassy and most international organisations observe a self-imposed curfew, the timing of which changes in response to the situation,” the letter said.
The British government warned citizens in Juba of visiting the airport before confirming the dates and times for flights which it said are always subject to change at a short notice.
“Juba Airport is open and commercial flights are operating, but you should check flight schedules with airlines before travelling to the airport. Timings are subject to change at short notice.
“You should make sure you have a valid visa before travelling. Requests for consular assistance should be directed to the British High Commission in Nairobi in the first instance,” it further said.
