(JUBA) – The South Sudan National Police Service has denied allegations that young people arrested during recent anti-crime operations in Juba have been forcibly recruited into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
The denial comes after photos and videos widely circulated on social media, suggesting that security forces were rounding up youths in the capital and sending them to military training camps.
The opposition SPLA-IO last week claimed it had rescued 17 young people from SSPDF bases in Unity State, alleging that they had first been arrested in Juba before being transferred to the army against their will.
Concerns were also raised by some lawmakers and families who said that the crackdown was being used as a cover for forced military conscription. They argued that several of the detained youths had been sent to conflict zones without due process.
Police spokesperson Maj. Gen. James Monday Enoka, however, dismissed the allegations. He said the individuals arrested were moved to detention centres outside Juba because the capital’s facilities had no more space to accommodate them.
“The detention centres in Juba are not enough to accommodate all those who were arrested. So, we had to identify states that had available space in their facilities,” Enoka explained in an interview.
He further stressed that recruitment into the police or army in South Sudan follows a clear process. According to him, anyone seeking to join must meet five main criteria, including age, education, health and moral standing.
“Those who are underage, still studying, or suffering from health conditions are released. We hand them back to their parents, who sign undertakings to be responsible for them. Only adults with criminal records are kept in detention, and their families are informed,” Enoka said.
The police spokesperson urged the public to work with security agencies by sharing information that could help restore peace and stability in Juba.
The government launched the ongoing anti-crime campaign in Juba and its outskirts last month following a surge in violent cases. One of the most serious incidents was the gang rape of a teenage girl in Shirikat by more than eight suspects, which shocked the community and prompted swift action.
Since then, dozens of youths have been arrested in joint operations across the city. Security officials say the crackdown is intended to protect civilians, reduce gang activity and restore public confidence.
Police Deny Sending Arrested Youths to SSPDF Camps
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Juba County, Central Equatoria |
| Allegations | Youths arrested during crackdowns being sent to SSPDF bases for training |
| Police Response | Denial of forced recruitment; transfers due to overcrowded detention centres |
| Opposition Claims | SPLA-IO alleged rescuing 17 youths from SSPDF bases in Unity State |
| Recruitment Process | Must meet criteria: age, education, health, moral record |
| Recent Trigger | Gang rape of teenage girl in Shirikat by 8+ suspects |
| Ongoing Action | Dozens arrested, joint security operations in Juba |
| Public Appeal | Police urge citizens to cooperate with security agencies |
