Kiir’s militia rape 3, maim 7 civilians in what NAS describes as ‘ethnic-based crimes’
A force of Salva Kiir’s militia stationed in Loka West has yet again gone on a rampage committing heinous ethnic-based crimes that include murder, rape, destruction of property, theft, and looting of civilian property.
According to a press release issued on December 28, 2020, by the Spokesperson of the National Salvation Front (NAS) Mr. Suba Samuel, the crimes took place on December 21 and 22 in Loka West, Central Equatoria State.
“On December 21st and 22nd 2020 respectively, a force of SSPDF under Loka West detachment committed heinous crimes against civilians, raping 3 women, maiming 7 people, forcefully making member of Revival Community of Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS) drink alcohol, looting properties and burning several huts
NAS condemns these heinous crimes of the regime of Salva Kiir and President Kiir responsible for committing ethnic-based crimes in South Sudan
“These crimes are serious violations of the Cessation of Hostilities agreement (CoHA) which aimed at protection of civilians and provision of unhindered access to humanitarian assistance,” read the statement in part.
The statement went on to condemn the crimes which it called “ethnic-based crimes”
“The Leadership of NAS condemns in the strongest possible terms these heinous crimes of the regime of Salva Kiir and holds the SSPDF and President Kiir responsible for committing ethnic-based crimes in South Sudan”
Over the past few years since the SPLM threw the country into civil war, President Salva Kiir has been using state resources to arm a private tribal army that is notorious for openly committing ethnic-based atrocities as the rest of the world watched in silence. These ethnic-based attacks have also been witnessed in Greater Upper Nile and Greater Bahr El Ghazal regions.
“It is very unfortunate and alarming that, these crimes are being committed in full glare while the peace monitors are watching and being indifferent,” regretted the statement.
In conclusion, the statement reassured the members and supporters of the historic movement (NAS) that it is committed to addressing the root causes of the conflict in the country.
