The Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) on Friday accused the National Salvation Front (NAS) rebel group led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo Swaka of targeting aid workers for ransom in Central Equatoria State.
Speaking during a CTSAMVM Board Meeting, the Mechanism’s Chairperson, Maj. Gen. Yitayal Gelaw noted that such actions severely hinder humanitarian efforts and put the lives of aid workers at risk.
“Unfortunately, recent tragic events in Central Equatoria and the targeting of civilians in transit serve as a stark reminder that communities and travelers continue to bear the brunt of alleged NAS operations,” he stated. “Recent reporting suggested that alleged NAS activities in the area had become more revenue-driven, whereby we have witnessed a change in tactics towards the targeting of NGO workers to extract ransom payments.”
He said this tactic has led to an unfortunate reduction in humanitarian access to vulnerable communities and recent returnees.
“During this reporting period, CTSAMVM deployed long-duration patrols to Western Bahr el Ghazal and Upper Nile to demonstrate CTSAMVM’s commitment to maintaining an operational presence across South Sudan,” Gen. Gelaw revealed. “Additionally, CTSAMVM deployed a long-duration patrol to Nasir Town to investigate the worrying reports of armed clashes between armed youth and SSPDF soldiers.”
On 20 September 2024, armed criminals attacked two well-marked MSF vehicles returning to the town of Yei and kidnapped MSF staff and one staff of a partner organization as well as looting the MSF staff’s personal belongings. This forced the medical charity to suspend all its outreach activities in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State.
NAS Spokesperson Suba Samuel could not immediately be reached for comment.
NAS was formed in March 2017 and has been actively fighting President Salva Kiir’s regime and primarily operates in the Equatoria region to remove the government. NAS refused to sign the 2018 peace pact.