U.S. urges its nationals in Sudan to take caution following energy price hikes

The United States on Tuesday asked its nationals in Sudan to take caution against possible protests following recent government decisions to increase prices of fuel and electricity.

A release by the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum Tuesday asked the U.S. nationals "to review personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates."

"The government of Sudan recently released an announcement regarding the lifting of state subsidies on certain consumer commodities. In addition, the government has reportedly taken measures to prevent or disrupt activities to protest the measures," it said.

Some Sudanese cities reportedly witnessed various protests against the government's new economic measures.

Last week, Sudanese government announced a package of economic decisions with an aim to curb the rise in inflation rates and stop decline of national currency.

In September 2013, the Sudanese government adopted a similar package of economic measures, which then prompted wide protests across the country.

The Sudanese economy has been suffering from difficulties as a result of the separation with South Sudan in July 2011, together with the U.S. economic sanctions. Endit