South Sudan rebels warn over civilian arrests in Juba

February 27, 2024 (ADDIS ABABA) – The opposition National Salvation Front (NAS) led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo has warned South Sudan government for allegedly arresting civilians linked to Sunday’s fire at a military ammunition store in the country’s capital, Juba.

The group claimed responsibility for the fire which caused panic in Juba.

Sudan Tribune could, however, not independently verify the hold-out group’s claims.

According to the military spokesperson, a fire erupted at an ammunition depot at Juba’s Giyada military barrack early morning of Sunday, injuring at least eight people.

But NAS, in a statement, claimed its “Special Force” carried out the attack in Juba.

On Monday, however, the hold-out group appealed to human rights organizations and civil society entities to protect civilians allegedly being arrested over the incident.

“NAS urges human rights organizations and civil society organizations to rise to protection of any falsely accused civilians,” the group said in a statement.

The group said remains committed to the peaceful resolution of the conflict in the Republic of South Sudan by addressing the root causes of the conflicts in the country.

(ST)