![South Sudan soldiers seen along Customs-ministries-Juba road. [Photo courtesy]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/thumbs_b_c_e9950d6e4f322d8869cd8a1bc3dd0400.jpg?resize=864%2C486&ssl=1)
JUBA – The ceasefire monitoring body in South Sudan has called on the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) to enforce discipline among soldiers accused of crimes against civilians during a recent disarmament operation.
Maj. Gen. Hailu Gonfa Eddosa, chairperson of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring & Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), urged the SSPDF to take action against soldiers who allegedly arrested, tortured, and extorted civilians in Gondokoro Payam in December 2023.
“Discipline is a command responsibility, and CTSAMVM recommends that all Parties take all steps necessary to reinforce discipline and ensure that all their officers understand they are accountable for the proper training and control of their soldiers,” Gonfa said.
Gonfa accused “ill-disciplined armed soldiers” of committing serious human rights violations against civilians in Gondokoro Payam. He noted that an investigation is underway and disciplinary action is being taken against those involved.
Gonfa also addressed a separate incident on February 12, 2024, when a fatal clash occurred between the SSPDF and SPLM/A-IO forces near the Wunaliet Cantonment Site. He expressed frustration that the SPLM/A-IO leadership has denied CTSAMVM access to the site, hindering the investigation.
“I am hoping this will be resolved, and would like to use this opportunity to remind all Parties that CTSAMVM is guaranteed freedom of movement and access under the R-ARCSS, and should expect the full cooperation of the Parties,” he said.
On December 31, 2023, and January 1, 2024, over 20 civilians were arrested in Gondokoro Payam over alleged links to a holdout group led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo. They were reportedly tortured, threatened, and released after paying 25,000 SSP each.
