The investigation follows reports that six men were arrested for carrying placards reading “Release Bol Mel” during President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s recent visit to Northern Bahr el Ghazal.
One of the alleged victims, identified as Weiu Yel, suffered damage to his testicles, according to family sources, while others reportedly said they were injected with unknown substances while in custody. Yel was receiving treatment at Aweil Hospital by the time of publication.
In a statement issued through the State Ministry of Information, the government urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information as authorities work to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.
Speaking to journalists in Aweil on Thursday, State Information Minister Gabriel Deng Yel said Governor Lt. Gen. Charles Madut Akol Deng had ordered a thorough investigation into the claims after the allegations gained widespread attention on social media.
“Governor Charles Madut Akol Deng recognises the seriousness of the matter and has directed the relevant authorities to investigate the alleged victims’ claims of being ‘recircumcised’ or castrated,” Yel said.
He added that the investigation would involve independent medical examinations to determine the authenticity of the allegations and that the findings would be made public once the inquiry is completed.
“The investigations will be conducted through multiple lenses, including independent medical findings, and the report will be made public,” he said.
Yel also cautioned against inflammatory commentary on social media, saying some online users had prematurely accused members of the National Security Service, including officers reportedly deployed from neighbouring Warrap State, before the investigation had established the facts.
The minister noted that Governor Madut is currently in Juba and assured residents that the state government remains committed to a transparent investigation.
Meanwhile, the Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Youth Union has condemned the alleged abuse and called for a credible and impartial investigation into the incident.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the youth body expressed its readiness to cooperate with the investigation and support efforts aimed at ensuring accountability.
“The Youth Union stands ready to cooperate with the investigation process and, where appropriate, participate in efforts that promote transparency, accountability and justice. We remain committed to ensuring that the concerns of young people are represented throughout the process,” the statement said.
The union also appealed to young people across the state to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information while the investigation is underway.
“We therefore call upon all youth across Northern Bahr el Ghazal State to remain calm and refrain from spreading unconfirmed reports, especially regarding the alleged castration case,” it said.
The allegations have sparked outrage among sections of the public, including youth groups and members of the South Sudanese diaspora, with many demanding accountability if the claims are substantiated.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged abuse and whether any individuals will be held responsible if evidence of wrongdoing is established.
