Maj. Gen Ahmed Ashiekh speaks during a past public gathering. (Photo: File)

Major General Ahmed Ashiekh has broken his silence following a harrowing ordeal in Upper Nile State, revealing how he escaped from a violent detention and survived three days hiding in the bush before reaching safety.

In an exclusive interview with Eye Radio from Renk on Saturday, August 23, 2026, Major General Ashiekh—who is currently receiving medical treatment—urged his community to reject retaliation and embrace peace following his survival of a violent detention.

According to Ashiekh, the incident began on August 17 when he returned to Wadakona from Renk. Upon arrival, he was summoned to the Manyo County Commissioner’s office by Commissioner Zakaria. Expecting a routine meeting, Ashiekh arrived to find a military force led by Brigadier General Allah Jabu and members of the county security committee.

Ashiekh stated he was questioned about his trip to Renk under allegations that he was violating movement restrictions—claims he denies, maintaining he had duly notified both military intelligence and county security before traveling to resolve an issue involving his vehicle.

Following the questioning, Ashiekh alleges that General Johnson Olony ordered his arrest, the disarming and detention of his bodyguards, and his immediate transfer to Magenis or Kitgwang.

“Soldiers beat me and dragged me along the ground before placing me in handcuffs and throwing me into a vehicle,” Ashiekh recounted.

His chance at survival came around 2:00 a.m. when the transport vehicle stopped and the escorting soldiers stepped away to rest. Still bound in handcuffs, Ashiekh fled into the dense bush. Despite soldiers allegedly opening fire as he ran, he managed to break free from his restraints under cover of darkness.

Ashiekh spent three days navigating the bush without aid before making contact with his family. Relatives subsequently coordinated with the First Division Army Command, which dispatched assistance, provided protection, and brought him to Renk for urgent medical care.

Despite the violent nature of his ordeal, Major General Ashiekh issued a stern appeal to members of the Collo community to refrain from retaliation or inflammatory rhetoric.

“I urge our community to remain calm and resolve this matter strictly through dialogue,” Ashiekh emphasized, warning that revenge would only trigger broader escalation and bloodshed across the state.

Note: The allegations detailed by Major General Ahmed Ashiekh could not be independently verified at the time of publication.