Tensions as army deploys forces around Machar’s residence

JUBA – A joint force comprising elements from South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and South Sudan National Security Service (NSS) has this evening been deployed around the residence of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny after fears of alleged attempt to escape the country’s capital Juba, several eyewitnesses said.

One eyewitness who requested not to be named said forces belonging to the national security and South Sudan People’s Defense Force has been deployed along the J1 road passing near Machar’s residence just behind the presidency with soldiers turning civilians passing by away.

“Tonight J1 road is blocked, the road that passes near Riek’s house. Soldiers are turning people away when you want to pass there,” the eyewitness said in Juba on condition of anonymity. ”

The eyewitness said he has “no idea [as to] what’s happening They’re about to create tensions again. Maybe they fear Riek may escape. Let’s see if they will withdraw soldiers on the road tomorrow.”

Another eyewitness speaking to Sudans Post from the round-about confirmed presence of “heavily armed soldiers” and said he also has no idea as to what was happening.

J1 critic and prominent activist Wani Michael said he has confirmed the latest development from ‘multiple’ sources that forces have been deployed on the way leading to First Vice President Machar’s house stressing that any sound of gun could trigger return to the deadly conflict that has killed around 500,000 people.

“From multiple sources, it seems the roads leading to FVP Dr. Riek Machar surrounded by President Kiir troops,” Michael said.

“This is just a provocation of the highest order &this night might be long, just one bullet shot up like this. We’re back to zero! God forgive us & protect our people,” the prominent activist added.

Sudans Post is monitoring this developing situation and will update our readers as soon as possible! Follow Sudans Post on Facebook HERE and on Twitter HERE.