The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said Thursday it was “closely monitoring with great concern” the humanitarian situation, warning that many South Sudanese nationals have been subjected to arrests, detention, imprisonment and maltreatment before being forcibly returned home.
“It has been observed with serious concern that a high number of South Sudanese, who have been forcefully deported… were subjected to harassment, arrests, detentions, imprisonment and maltreatment among others,” the ministry said, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
The ministry stressed that vulnerable groups—including women, children, students and the elderly—are among those affected, adding that reports indicate similar treatment is continuing against South Sudanese still residing in the affected countries.
Framing the issue as a priority diplomatic matter, Juba said it is engaging authorities “at the highest levels” both at home and in the capitals of the countries involved, as part of efforts to halt the deportations and ensure the protection of its citizens.
The ministry also announced it is leading a multisectoral task force mandated to intensify efforts and pursue “amicable” solutions through diplomatic channels, signalling a more coordinated government response to the crisis.
South Sudanese living abroad were urged to remain calm, respect the laws of host countries, and cooperate with embassies as the government works to resolve what it called a “disturbing” situation.
The statement follows confirmation by the South Sudan National Police Service that nearly 40 deportees recently returned from Sudan and Egypt are under investigation.
Police spokesperson Maj. Gen. Daniel Justin said 10 individuals arrived in Juba on April 20 aboard an EgyptAir flight, while 28 others were transported separately from Sudan to Renk in Upper Nile State on the same day.
According to police, the deportees arrived without legal documentation and are being screened to verify their identities and assess any legal implications linked to their removal.
The developments underscore mounting pressure on the government to respond firmly, as concerns grow over the treatment of South Sudanese migrants in parts of North Africa and beyond.
