Both media reports and reports from trusted observers on the ground confirm increasing fighting between Sudan and South Sudan, especially along the border areas.
Some NGOs and FBOs have relocated staff (especially international/expatriate staff) to Juba as a precautionary measure. Some organizations have also determined that bombings of military facilities in the northern part of South Sudan by Sudanese military forces is a trigger point for evacuation of personnel out of South Sudan (including personnel in Juba).
FBOs with operations and personnel in South Sudan are encouraged to maintain 24/7 contact through their security networks, to have evacuation and shelter-in-place plans updated (daily if necessary) and to insure that communications are in place to maintain contact and provide updates and directives to staff (especially in remote areas).
The U.S. Embassy issued the following emergency message April 12:
“The U.S Embassy in South Sudan is issuing this security message to alert U.S. citizens, especially those located in the areas along the border between South Sudan and Sudan, to the potential hazard of travel in South Sudan. Due to the conflict in the border areas between South Sudan and Sudan, the Embassy advises U.S. citizens to depart all border states.”