The South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) announced on Friday that they have rescued 600 Sudanese nationals who are now seeking shelter and protection at the SSPDF General Headquarters in Bilpam, Juba.
This followed violent protests by angry South Sudanese on Thursday, triggered by the brutal killing of dozens of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan.
Early this week, gruesome videos circulating on social media of South Sudanese killed in Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jazirah State, raised concern about the safety of thousands who have been stranded in Sudan.
The killings, captured on camera after the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) took control of Wad Medani from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Saturday, sparked violent protests in Juba and other cities in South Sudan on Thursday night and Friday morning.
The protests were met with a heavy police response, leading to arrests, though those detained were later released. Some Sudanese-owned shops were vandalized and looted, prompting the government to impose a nationwide curfew early Friday morning.
At a press conference on Friday evening, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang confirmed that the army had rescued Sudanese nationals from protesters across various residential areas in Juba on Thursday night.
“Today, they have been arriving at the Army Headquarters for protection. As of now, about 600 Sudanese nationals are being sheltered at the SSPDF General Headquarters, where they are receiving protection,” said Lul.
He added that food rations have been distributed and the individuals are currently being registered for further assistance.
“They are being registered to ensure the necessary interventions are made. I was informed by the Director for Administration and General Services that they are being registered, and efforts are underway to provide them with food rations,” Lul explained.
Lul also stated that additional forces have been deployed to protect the Sudanese nationals, and security personnel have been instructed to arrest anyone caught looting or damaging property.
“Once the registration process is complete, this will not be the permanent shelter for them, as these are military quarters. They are here for their safety,” Lul added. “The SSPDF will liaise with relevant ministries and humanitarian organizations to assess their needs and identify a more suitable long-term location.”
Meanwhile, Col. John Kassara Koang Nhial, Spokesperson for the South Sudan National Police Service, revealed that police had also rescued 45 Sudanese nationals, who are now receiving protection at police stations in Juba.
“The police managed to rescue 45 Sudanese traders in Juba, and they are now being sheltered at police facilities. Further details will be provided later,” Nhial said.