Chaos at Juba University hostel as police wound 16, detain 23 female students

JUBA – At least 16 female university students were wounded, and 23 others were detained after a chaotic police raid on a university hostel in Juba on Wednesday, witnesses and families say.

The reason for the raid remains unclear, but sources point to a dispute over unpaid hostel fees.

Students residing in the girls’ hostel reported to Sudans Post being pressured by the administration to immediately settle outstanding hostel fees of 50,000 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) or vacate the premises.

One female student speaking on condition of anonymity said the university’s dean of student affairs called in police after students refused to comply.

“University officials demanded immediate payment of 50,000 SSP,” she recounted. “When we refused, they brought police and started confiscating our phones and mattresses to sell for the payment.”

Students justified their refusal, citing the administration’s failure to provide basic amenities like water, functioning toilets, and a clean environment. They allege mismanagement of maintenance fees.

“They don’t provide security, water, or fix toilets,” another source said. “We pay for maintenance, but they steal the money.”

The situation escalated when a university representative attempted to take a student’s mattress. Students resisted, leading to police intervention.

“Police beat students, critically injuring at least 16 and arresting 23,” another student reported also on condition of anonymity.

Attempts to mediate were unsuccessful. Police initially agreed to leave but returned with reinforcements, forcibly entering the locked hostel.

They reportedly fired shots and physically assaulted students before making arrests.

“They don’t give receipts, and the payment system is chaotic,” an additional source added.

A mother of a detained student, Achai, identified her 23-year-old daughter as one of the injured currently receiving treatment at Juba Teaching Hospital. Achai said there is no better medical services at Juba Teaching Hospital, but she can’t pay for private services.

She demanded government intervention and accountability from the university administration.

“I urge President Salva Kiir and the government to investigate the University of Juba leadership,” Achai said. “My daughter’s life hangs in the balance.”

When contacted by Sudans Post, police spokesman Daniel Justin acknowledged the incident but declined to confirm detentions. He stated investigations into the matter are ongoing.