Court convicts 60 South Sudanese soldiers for murder
August 30, 2016 (JUBA) – A military court has convicted 60 soldiers of murdering civilians and for looting during last month’s fighting in the South Sudanese capital, Juba.
“60 soldiers have been charged and found guilty of various crimes including looting, killing of civilians and other misbehaviours,” Lul told Sudan Tribune by phone Tuesday.
He, however, said no soldier was charged with rape contrary to widespread claims of abuse against women and girls allegedly committed by forces loyal to President Kiir.
Last month, a compound hosting humanitarian workers was attacked when forces loyal to former first vice president Riek Machar fought street battles with those allied to Kiir.
“We don’t have evident about rape as reported by UNMISS [UN Mission in South Sudan] or any other persons because nobody came forward,” Lul further revealed.
According to the army spokesman, the court martial, formed in July by orders of the army chief of general staff, listened to the charges and found only 60 of the soldiers out of the more than 100 accused, guilty of looting markets, homes and killing civilians.
“Once the president approves the court ruling, the sentences will be implemented,” he stressed.
A number of human rights entities as well as the United Nations had in the past accused South Sudanese soldiers of gross human rights violations, allegations the army denies.
(ST)