South Sudan is investigating a shootout at the home of former spy chief Akol Koor, who was ousted amid coup rumors. Military personnel have been deployed to secure the area following the incident, which involved a misunderstanding between security forces. The country continues to face significant challenges related to political instability and economic strife.
South Sudan’s security forces are currently conducting an investigation into a shootout that occurred at the residence of Akol Koor, the recently dismissed former spy chief. The incident took place in Juba on Thursday night, amidst escalating tensions following Koor’s ousting by President Salva Kiir two months prior, which had sparked rumors of a potential coup. Eyewitnesses reported that the shooting lasted approximately one hour, highlighting the ongoing instability in the world’s youngest nation, which struggles with internal power conflicts and economic difficulties.
Following the incident, there was a heightened military presence around Koor’s home located in the Thongpiny district of Juba, although daily activities within the capital appeared to resume as normal. Reports have emerged indicating that Koor’s physical safety is secure, with military sources suggesting he had been detained after intense clashes that resulted in casualties among his soldiers. However, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces have refuted claims suggesting Koor had fled to a United Nations facility for refuge.
Police authorities have confirmed that the situation is now stable but advised local residents to remain vigilant. The United Nations in South Sudan had earlier issued a warning to personnel regarding the incident, linking it to Koor’s arrest. Notably, Koor, who led the National Security Services post-independence in 2011, was dismissed amid allegations of plotting against the president, coinciding with the government’s decision to postpone national elections until December 2026, thereby intensifying frustrations from the international community.
In light of the incident, the spokesperson for the SSPDF indicated that the shootout was a result of a “misunderstanding” among security personnel providing protection to Koor’s residence, which escalated into gunfire, resulting in injuries to two servicemen before order was restored. South Sudan continues to grapple with the consequences of a brutal civil war that erupted in 2013, leaving a legacy of violence, poverty, and entrenched corruption.
South Sudan seceded from Sudan in 2011, becoming the world’s youngest nation. However, the newly formed country has faced persistent challenges marked by civil strife and political instability. The internal conflict, primarily between factions loyal to President Kiir and his deputy Riek Machar, escalated into a civil war that lasted from 2013 to 2018, leading to significant loss of life and displacement. Political tensions continue to affect governance and efforts at establishing a stable transitional process, culminating in the recent delay of national elections which was met with international concern for the nation’s future governance and stability.
The recent shootout at the former spy chief’s residence underscores the fragile security situation in South Sudan, exacerbated by political turmoil and a history of violence. The ongoing investigations highlight the government’s attempts to manage internal conflicts while maintaining stability. With the delay of elections and the recent violent incidents, South Sudan remains at a critical juncture where political dialogues and effective governance are essential to avoid further destabilization.
Original Source: www.france24.com
