Security forces have surrounded the house of Aweil's recently suspended deputy mayor, the politcian said.

Wol Mathok Diing said that security forces acting on directive of Northern Bahr al Ghazal state's acting caretaker governor Salva Chol Ayat have encircled his home and demanded he hand over government properties immediately.

"I am now inside my room and they are talking to people outside the compound. They want to take the car by force but I have refused. There are people who have intervened and they are talking to them," Salva said.

The suspended deputy mayor said that a security agent called him earlier in the day while he was out and told him he was being followed on Salva's orders. He said the agent told him he needed to hand over his car, offiice stamp, and any other government properties.

"I said okay but have I been dismissed from work? I have just been suspended and if it results into dismissal later, I have no problem, I will hand over whatever government properties I was given," he said.

Salva said that when he reached his house, security forces attempted to take his car by force. He refused, telling them he remains a constitutional post holder with the right to remain with some government properties including a car for up to three months after termination.

He then entered the house. The standoff began thereafter.

Wol has been suspended twice, first for his political activity and a second time for mismanagement of funds. He has in turn accused the acting caretaker governor of causing division in the state.

Related:

Aweil deputy mayor suspended for corruption (15 Jun.)

Four officials in Aweil suspended for political reasons (6 May)