Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused faced tense testimony Friday, with the main complainer claiming plots against SSPDF in Nasir, but unable to specify how the attack occurred.
Captain Richard Gachi Apollo, representing the National Security Service, testified that Dr. Machar conspired with the White Army militia and SPLA-IO forces to orchestrate attacks on the SSPDF garrison in Nasir on 3 March 2025, which resulted in the death of more than 200 soldiers, including Major General David Majur Dak.
“Dr. Machar plotted with the White Army and SPLA-IO, sharing intelligence to target the SSPDF,” Captain Apollo told the court.
Under cross-examination by Dr. Machar’s lawyer, Warnyang Kir Warnyang, Captain Apollo conceded that he was “not aware of the exact method” used in the attack.
The defense sought to highlight gaps in the prosecution’s evidence and questioned the complainer on the role of suspended Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol, alleged to have provided funding and mobilized forces for the planned assault.
Captain Apollo further implicated other co-accused, including Mam Pal Dhuor for funding and intelligence, and Gatwech Lam Puoch for mobilizing fighters, while emphasizing that the reported support remained largely financial, with the operational details unknown.
Prosecutor Serafino Simon Mizan pressed Captain Apollo on why the case was brought forward, with the complainer explaining that the National Security Service acted upon intelligence received on 21 January 2025, alleging destructive activities by the accused against national security.
Presiding Judge James Alala Deng adjourned the session until Monday, 17 November 2025, instructing the prosecution to ensure witnesses are fully prepared for the continuation of testimonies.
The eight accused including Puot Kang Chuol, Mam Pal Dhuor, Gatwech Lam Puoch, Lt Gen Gabriel Duop Lam, Dr. Machar, Camilo Gatmai Kel, Mading Yak Riek, and Dominic Gatgok Riek face a range of charges including treason, terrorism, crimes against humanity, and mass murder.
