Some of displaced civilians from Gondokoro in Juba County following disarmament exercise in the area -Credit: Madrama James/Eye Radio

The officer who was in charge of the recent disarmament exercise in Gondororo Payam of Juba County has been arrested with some soldiers over allegations of civilians’ harassment, said Central Equatoria governor. 

The Head Chief of Gondokoro Payam of Juba County Ramadan Juma Wani, said 19 people including four chiefs were detained during a disarmament exercise in the area.

Hundreds of civilians were displaced as a result.

Following the January incident, Governor Emmanuel Adil formed a committee to investigate the incident.

Speaking to Urban FM in Juba on Thursday, Governor Adil said the disarming soldiers crossed the rules of engagement.

“Yes, we acknowledge that the soldiers cross the rules of engagement. Not all the soldiers, but some soldiers. Therefore, we took note of the incident that they went excessive,” Adil said.

According to him, the state government immediately took action and the officer who was in charge of that operation, and some of his soldiers were all arrested.

“Not all of them, but some of them misbehaved. Action was taken at the onset of the report before it was completed. The officer who was in charge of that operation, and some of his soldiers were all arrested.”

Added that, the state government will compensate those who lost their proprieties.

“We as a government have taken note of that, and we are mobilizing resources on how to compensate those on the aspect of those soldiers who are given the command.”