Yei River County cracks down on rebel abductions with stepped-up patrols

YEI – Authorities in Yei River County are grappling with a recent surge in abductions by the National Salvation Front (NAS) rebel group, prompting a swift response in the form of intensified security patrols, according to local commissioner Aggrey Cyrus.

Cyrus spoke to Sudans Post on Friday, outlining the concerning trend. He alleged that the NAS, led by General Thomas Cirillo Swaka, was responsible for the abduction of over 90 young people in the past few weeks.

“There has been a rampant issue with abductions by the National Salvation Front,” Cyrus said. “Their intention seems to be to forcibly recruit young men into their ranks, likely due to a decrease in their manpower following recent defections and surrenders.”

Cyrus went on to allege that the abducted youths were taken across the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where they were subjected to forced recruitment by armed groups operating in the region.

“Their strategy appears to be targeting young people who frequent entertainment venues like discotheques at night,” he explained.

“While some of the abducted individuals have managed to escape and return home, initial reports suggested the number taken was around 90. We have reason to believe the recruitment camp they are being taken to is located somewhere within the DRC,” he added.

In response to these developments, Cyrus emphasized the county’s commitment to tackling the issue.

“We have taken comprehensive steps to address this situation by significantly increasing the number of patrols operating in the area, both during the day and at night,” he said.

“These enhanced security measures seem to be having a positive effect. We have reports that the abductions have stopped entirely since we implemented the increased patrols,” he added.