73 men who were detained by authorities in Lakes State during a mass sweep of loiterers three weeks ago have been released without charge.

County Commissioner of Rumbek East Martin Matien Anyuon said authorities rounded up the men on suspicion of looting during an operation that targeted idle men with guns.

However, Martin said all 73 men were found innocent and have been released without charge. Their guns were confiscated by the authorities, he added.

“Those who released are not thieves, but they violated the rules that the authorities said no one is to be moving loitering with guns,” Martin said, adding that armed men should keep their weapons in the cattle camps.

Commissioner Martin added another 74 men are still in detention on suspicion of taking part in killings and cattle raidings.

When asked if any investigations have been done into the men remaining in detention, Martin said that some have gone to trial while others are still being investigated while under detention.