JUBA, South Sudan — South Sudanese police arrested seven suspects Thursday in connection with the alleged gang-rape of a girl in Juba’s Sherikat neighbourhood after video footage of the assault circulated online, June 20.
Police said the disturbing video appears to show the girl being forced into sexual acts by a group of young men who recorded the incident. Under South Sudan’s 2008 Penal Code, rape is punishable by up to 14 years in prison, a fine, or both.
Maj. Gen. James Monday Enoka, the national police spokesperson, told Radio Tamazuj that Inspector General Gen. Atem Marol Biar ordered a swift response.
“The IGP directed the assistant inspector general for criminal investigations to deploy a special force to apprehend the criminals,” Enoka said. “I am happy to say the criminals have been arrested, and the investigation is underway. The case will be taken to court.”
Enoka confirmed that the victim is receiving medical care. He emphasized that rape is a serious offense under national law and said authorities are partnering with communities to encourage reporting and prosecution of gender-based violence.
Civil society activist Ter Manyang Gatwech condemned the assault and said it reflects a disturbing rise in violence against women and girls.
“We urge law enforcement to ensure all perpetrators are held accountable,” Gatwech said. He also called on the government to strengthen legal protections for women and girls.
Other security incidents
Elsewhere, Enoka reported that unidentified attackers burned down three shops in Tambura town, Western Equatoria State, with suspected rebel involvement.
In Unity State, a woman was fatally stabbed with a spear in Rubkona County. Police are investigating the killing.
