Fleeing hell

72 Irish citizens saved from Sudan | Work ongoing to rescue 100 more

- SEAN MURPHY

WORK is continuing to rescue 100 Irish citizens who are trapped in war-torn Sudan through emergency evacuation in the coming days.

Tanaiste and Defence Minister Micheal Martin yesterday revealed 72 people have so far been removed from the capital Khartoum.

He said the mission is "part of the ongoing, coordinated evacuation of EU citizens. Joint missions of this nature show the best of our union and we thank our EU partners".

He added: "The Department of Foreign Affairs, and our Embassy in Kenya will remain in contact with everyone who has registered with us.

"At this point, approximately 72 Irish citizens and family members have been safely evacuated, and we are aware of more than 100 Irish citizens who are still in Sudan.

"All Irish citizens in Sudan are being asked to exercise caution and observe local restrictions.

"Irish citizens who have not already done so should urgently register with the Embassy of Ireland in Kenya, which is accredited to Sudan.

The Department of Foreign Affairs advised that citizens should follow the Embassy on Twitter for updated advice.

Up to 50 of all the evacuations were revealed on Monday, while the latest airlifts were carried out yesterday amid a 72-hour ceasefire.

It was struck after two days of negotiations, but observers warned that the warring factions did not abide by previous truces.