Security forces shot dead three people during nationwide protests in Sudan, a doctor’s committee said, as hundreds of thousands of people demanded the restoration of a civilian-led government after a military coup
In Khartoum, security forces used tear gas and gunfire to try to disperse a huge crowd after protesters had been setting up a stage and discussing the possibility of a sit-in, said a Reuters witness.
Sudanese police denied shooting protesters during the demonstrations, saying on state TV that one policeman sustained gunshot wounds. A representative of the military was not immediately available to comment. Protesters carried Sudanese flags and chanted "Military rule can't be praised" and "This country is ours, and our government is civilian" as they marched in neighbourhoods across Khartoum.
While Western states have denounced the coup, Sudan's regional allies Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt have emphasized the need for stability and security. In central Khartoum there was a heavy military deployment of armed troops that included the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.With Saturday's daths, at least 14 protesters have been killed in clashes with security forces this week, raising fears of a full-blown crackdown.
With internet and phone lines restricted by the authorities, opponents of the coup mobilised for the protest using fliers, SMS messages, graffiti, and neighbourhood rallies.against deposed President Omar al-Bashir that began in December 2018, have been central to organising despite the arrests of key politicians.