New arrests as Darfuri student protest raided in Omdurman

The security services today arrested at least seven Darfuri students of the University of El Zaeem El Azhari, as protests continue for exemption from tuition fees.

Several callers told Radio Dabanga that today’s new arrests followed a protest meeting of Darfuri students at the Danubawa complex in Omdurman, against the issue of eight students who were expelled by the university in early April.

“Student supporters of the National Congress Party (NCP), backed by a security force, stormed the meeting,” they said. “The security contingent used tear gas, and the NCP students beat us with sticks and batons.”

At least seven Darfuri students have been arrested, including Omar Adam Ahmed, Mohammed Abdel Halim Mohamed, Salah Adam Mohammed, Yassin Mohammed Abdul Rasool, Adam Ismail Ahmed, Adam Ahmed Jibril, and Alpahir Abubakr Al Fadil. It is not known where they are being held.

It is known that several students were injured, however as the protesters scattered in all directions during the raid, exact figures have yet to be ascertained.

Expulsions

As reported by Radio Dabanga yesterday, the Court of Public Order in Bahri dismissed a complaint against 20 Darfuri students and ordered their release on Tuesday. They were arrested on Monday following a similar sit-in protest.

Lawyer Jibril Hasabo told Radio Dabanga that a group of lawyers embarked on defence procedures of the students whom the police charged with rioting and breach of public safety according to the Criminal Code.

“The Court found no grounds to substantiate the charges or secure a conviction, so it issued a decision to dismiss the complaint against them all”, he said.

The students are calling for exception from tuition fees, and the reinstatement of their eight colleagues.