The South Sudanese capital, Juba, witnessed a shooting incident at Christ Church Nakasongola in the early morning hours of Tuesday, resulting in four reported injuries.
Police spokesperson Daniel Justin Boula addressed journalists following the incident and provided details about the confrontation that occurred when security forces were deployed to demolish the church located near parliament buildings.
According to Boula, a dispute had arisen between the National Legislative Assembly and the church, which had gone through a legal process. Eventually, the court ruled in favor of the assembly, informing the church of the decision, he added.
“Today [Tuesday] was the execution of the order that the church be abolished from there, and the plot is to be handed over to the assembly,” Justin explained.
During the execution of the order, he said, an unidentified individual from outside the church premises opened fire on the police forces, injuring four people.
He pointed out that the injured individuals included a police officer, a national security agent, and two passersby, all of whom were male. He added that the shooter managed to escape, and security forces are currently conducting an investigation.
In response to the incident, the police spokesperson said additional forces were deployed to the church premises to ensure security.
Meanwhile, Pastor David, a representative of the church, confirmed that two church members who were protesting the demolition had been injured and were receiving treatment at Mauna Medical Hospital.
Pastor David accused the national parliament of attempting to seize the church land and revealed that the church had opened a case in the East African Court in Tanzania, expressing disappointment over the government’s failure to appear.
He emphasized the church’s commitment to fight for the land, pledging to pursue the legal avenues available.