S. Sudan army releases 13 POWs captured from SPLA-IO

December 8, 2015 (JUBA) – South Sudanese army released 13 prisoners of war on Tuesday as a show of commitment to fully implement the peace agreement signed with the opposition faction of SPLM-IO led by former vice president, Riek Machar.

Speaking to journalists as the former SPLM in opposition combats were paraded before cameras, SPLA spokesman Colonel Philip Aguer said the release is in accordance with the army war principles.

“The SPLA, since the war of liberation (1983 – 2005) has been releasing prisoners of war and we have record with the International Red Cross Committee,” said Aguer.

The thirteen former fighters were captured in Upper Nile, Unity and Jonglei states.

Aguer did not say if there are more prisoners of war remaining in government’s cells.

“We are telling the people of South Sudan and the world at large that the SPLA is committed to peace and will implement it to the spirit and letter,” he said.

The release of prisoners of war comes just three days before an advance team of SPLM in opposition is due in Juba.

However, this comes at a time both sides continue to trade accusations for violations of ceasefire in other parts of the country.

(ST)