South Sudan’s National Security Service on Monday arrested a journalist who was covering a court session where one of their officials testified in a corruption case against former presidency staff.
Radio Bakhita Journalist Gale Julius was picked up this afternoon by security agent at the Juba High Court immediately after the sitting.
Last week, the court summoned the two directors of national security, External Affairs Director Thomas Duoth and Internal Security Director Akol Kuur. However, only Duoth appeared at the court today to give his statement.
The security was heavy today, surrounding the court premises and at the main entrance of the compound.
During the sitting today, defense lawyers asked Gen. Thomas Duoth, “Do you know John Agou and his position?” They were referring to one of the accused, their client, who allegedly embezzled money from the presidency while working there as an administrator.
Thomas replied, “Yes, he is one of the officers in National Security. I don’t know anything about John Agou. I am not his witness.”
Then the judge told Thomas to go out.