SPLA-IO Accused of Detaining Civilian Boats, Demanding $4,000 Along Sobat River ‎

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‎ Boat ferrying civilians  Nasir, Upper Nile State  ‎Authorities in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, have accused forces loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA-IO) of detaining civilian riverboats and demanding ransom-like payments of up to $4,000 from traders and passengers along the Sobat River. ‎ ‎According to Nasir County Commissioner James Gatwech Joak, several boats traveling from Matar in Nasir County to Malakal were intercepted by SPLA-IO soldiers in Yakuach, an area in Nyirol County, Jonglei State. ‎ ‎“Our traders paid local taxes to SPLA-IO in Mandeng before setting off. But on reaching Yakuach, they were detained again and told to pay an additional four thousand U.S. dollars,” Commissioner Gatwech said. ‎ ‎He explained that the detained boat operators and traders were reportedly held for four days while armed men demanded more payments.  ‎ Some of the passengers were women, children, and patients traveling for medical treatment in Malaka...

Army Chief Visits Malakal to Calm Tensions After Recent Fighting


New Chief of the Defense Forces (CDF), Gen. Dr. Paul Nang Majok- Courtesy


‎The Chief of Defense Forces of South Sudan, General Paul Nang, has arrived in Malakal to check on the security situation and speak to the army and people, after recent clashes with the White Army in Upper Nile State.

‎General Nang came with other top military leaders, including General Johnson Olony, to encourage the soldiers and show support for peace in the region. This is his first visit since the fighting started last month.

‎“We want the people to know that Malakal is safe and under the control of the government,” said State Information Minister James Basha Tiwa. He dismissed rumors on social media claiming the town could be attacked soon.

‎Recently, the army entered Ulang County about 152 kilometers from Malakal without facing resistance. However, the White Army looted properties before retreating.

‎People in Malakal are worried as many families fleeing the conflict are arriving in town. “We are afraid. Every day, more people are coming. The fighting is getting closer,” said Nyandeng Kuol, a local resident.

‎The Police Commissioner, Major General Joseph Mayen Akon, also confirmed that Malakal is secure and that security forces are keeping a close watch on the situation.

‎General Nang’s visit is seen as a sign of the government’s commitment to protect the people and bring peace back to Upper Nile.

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