VOA reporter Diing Magot finally released

JUBA — South Sudan journalist Diing Magot who was arrested last week by security operatives has been released, President of Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) Patrick Oyet confirms.

Diing who works for the Voice of America was arrested on August 7 at Konyokonyo market while covering a mini protest by local youths demanding government intervention to address rising costs of fuel and essential commodities in the market.

She was being held at a police station in Malikia alongside six demonstrators, one of whom was shot in the leg during the protest, before she was transferred to Juba prison on Monday.

On Saturday Journalist Diing was granted the so-called ‘ordinary bail’, which is otherwise a bail without condition, but couldn’t be released.

Speaking to Sudans Post, a family member said Diing has been released along with the six demonstrators and has returned home.

“She has been released. She is already here and those who were arrested with her, the protestors, have also been released and we thank all the friends,” the family source said.

When contacted by Sudans Post, the head of UJOSS Oyet confirmed the latest development.