Darfur 24: Agencies
The NetBlox Observatory, which monitors Internet service, said that the three main Internet operators in Sudan went out of service on Wednesday, leading to a communications blackout for millions stuck in conflict areas or fleeing in search of a safe haven.
Network downtime could also lead to the freezing of electronic wallets that many rely on in light of a widespread shortage of cash.
Aid agencies warn of widespread hunger in Sudan and famine-like conditions in some areas as a result of fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces since April.
Two of the networks have been out of service since Friday, and sources in the communications sector and the pro-military government news agency attributed this to the closure of the networks affiliated with MTN Sudan and Sudani by the Rapid Support Forces.
NetBlocks Observatory said that Zain Sudan had also gone out of service.
A source from the Rapid Support Forces denied responsibility, and the companies did not publicly accuse anyone.