![Sudanese refugees escaping conflict in Sudan are pictured across the border in Metema in northwestern Ethiopia on August 1, 2023 after crossing from Sudan's eastern town of Gallabat [-/AFP via Getty Images]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/GettyImages-1569395924-scaled-e1725353295499.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1)
Sudanese authorities yesterday closed the Gallabat border crossing with Ethiopia after the Fano militia seized the nearby Ethiopian town of Metema, Sudanese military sources told the Sudan Tribune.
As a result, border trade activities between Sudan and Ethiopia have stopped as has travel.
The sources said the Sudanese authorities allowed Ethiopian federal police and army personnel to cross into Sudan after they were disarmed.
In return, the Fano militias allowed the Sudanese stranded at the border to return to Sudan.
Informed sources said the Fano militias have controlled the Ethiopian town of Metema and the crossing linking it to Sudan, in an effort to cut off food and fuel supplies coming in from Sudan.
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