Mam Pal Dhuor, the second defendant in the Nasir special court trial. | Courtesy

The second accused in the Nasir garrison attack trial, businessman Mam Pal Dhuor, on Wednesday denied allegations that he shared operational and intelligence details connected to the March 2025 assault.

The trial, which involves suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-defendants, centers on the attack on a South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) base in Nasir.

Appearing during the 85th session of the court, Pal characterized the prosecution’s case and expert testimonies as unfounded and unsupported by evidence.

Pal’s statement counters testimony delivered during the 46th court session by Peter Calvin, a digital forensic expert from South Africa. Calvin had presented evidence claiming that Pal disclosed information ahead of the garrison raid. The expert alleged that the data covered militia mobilization, intelligence protocols, and organizational strategies.

Pal denied these claims through a court interpreter, pleading not guilty to charges of treason, terrorism, murder, crimes against humanity, and destruction of property.

The businessman petitioned the panel of three judges to order the return of vehicles, valuables, and cash taken from him during his arrest on March 5, 2025, stating the seizure lacked legal basis.

Pal testified that security officers intercepted him while he was boarding a flight to Uganda, confiscating his personal belongings. The items listed include, cash: US$1,158 and SSP 23,000, electronics: An HP laptop, documents and personal effects: His passport, a bag, a necklace, two rings, and three watches.

Judge Stephen Simon announced that the court has concluded its examination of the second accused. The case was adjourned to Friday, June 12, for the cross-examination of Pal.

Judge Binjigwa directed the third accused, lawmaker Gatwech Lam Puoch, to prepare to take the stand for examination following Friday’s proceedings.

“The second accused has finished his examination. In the next session, the court will examine the second accused on Friday,” Judge Binjigwa stated. “The third accused should prepare himself to be examined.”

The prosecution states that forces from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), allied with the White Army militia, launched the attack on the SSPDF base in Nasir in March 2025.

The state alleges the attackers killed 257 soldiers—including commander David Majur Dak—and destroyed or seized military equipment valued at US$58 million.

The eight defendants deny the charges. Dr. Riek Machar remains under house arrest, while the remaining co-defendants, including Puot Kang Chuol, Gatwech Lam Puoch, Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, Camilo Gatmai Kel, Mading Yak Riek, and Dominic Gatgok Riek, are held by the National Security Service.