KHARTOM, 27 October 2021, (TON): At least seven people were killed and scores wounded when soldiers opened fire on protesters.

Sudanese security forces launched sweeping arrests of anti-coup protesters, tightening the regime's grip while the international community ramped up punitive measures.

The World Bank froze aid and the African Union suspended the East African country over this week's military takeover.

Armed forces deployed in large numbers after overnight protests saw clashes in the capital Khartoum, when officers fired tear gas and arrested several leading pro-democracy activists, including from Sudan's largest political party, the Umma Party.

"Police forces have removed all the barricades since Wednesday morning and arrested all the people who stood near them," said Hady Bashir, a protester, after media correspondents saw security forces clear rocks and tyres blocking major streets in Khartoum.

Beyond the capital, protesters have stood their ground to decry the country's latest military coup, setting up blockades in Port Sudan in the east, Wad Madani to the south, and Atbara to the north.