The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) has reportedly handed over 17 young men, including teenagers, to UNMISS after they reportedly escaped forced conscription into the SSPDF following a June roundup in Juba.
According to SPLM-IO officials, the youths fled into opposition-held areas in Upper Nile State after being forcibly conscripted into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
The group was reportedly rounded up in Juba in June in the wake of a high-profile gang rape case in Shirkat and accused of being members of a local criminal gang.
Eyewitnesses allege the detainees were flown to Malakal and later transferred to Gel-achel in Baliet County, where they underwent military training.
SPLM-IO released a video on social media showing the group, accusing the government of recruiting children, a violation of both South Sudanese law and international conventions.
SPLM-IO representatives said the handover to UNMISS was intended to ensure the youths’ safe return and to prevent further harm. UNMISS has confirmed it will facilitate their repatriation to Juba.
The government and SSPDF have not yet issued a public response to the allegations.
UNMISS will now facilitate their safe return to families in Juba.
