A local official in Yei River State has accused a group of SPLA-IO soldiers of looting properties of civilians living in Yaribe boma of Morobo County.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, the county commissioner, Paulino Dada said his office received complaints from residents that three SPLA-IO soldiers crossed from Panyume, robbed properties and tortured a civilian last Friday.
“I received information that three soldiers took 1,000 SSP from an old woman, then beat and broke a man’s backbone with a hammer. Also, people in the border areas around Morobo, Mugwo and Kupera reported that they were robbed by some SPLA-IO soldiers,” he explained.
Dada, however, said they have contacted SPLA-IO authorities to ensure that the looted properties are recovered and returned to rightful owners.
“We are talking with the SPLA-IO to ensure civilians and their properties are protected so that they live in peace. I am sure we will find solutions to some of the challenges facing civilians,” he stressed.
SPLA-IO commanders in the area could not immediately be reached for comment.
Separately, the county commissioner said government forces in Morobo County have vacated all civilian centers, adding that there is now a good relationship between civilians and the military.
“In Morobo, the forces are in their former garrisons and police stations previously occupied by the army were vacated three months ago. Currently, there are no soldiers in civilian centers and civilians and the army are building a good working relationship,” Dada said.