JUBA — South Sudan’s military has warned that child abduction and trafficking are no longer confined to areas traditionally affected by the crime in Jonglei State and neighboring communities, following reports of missing children in the capital.
A military spokesperson announced that an intelligence operation has uncovered an alleged trafficking network operating within Juba, particularly concentrated around the Sugdar 4 area in Mangaten.
Major General Lul Ruai Koang noted that both suspects and victims hail from various communities, indicating that the criminal activity is not restricted to a single ethnic group or region.
Reflecting on the escalating geographic reach of the crisis, Maj. Gen. Koang stated: “It is no longer a regional issue or a state issue that used to be confined to Jonglei. It has become a national issue”
“At some stage, it was difficult to go to Jonglei. Reports of abductions are so common in greater Jonglei. Of course, with the spillover to neighboring states of Central Equatoria here or Eastern Equatoria, of Ethiopia, Gambela region, of Upper Nile.
“Now, it has come to the heart of the capital. The danger is no longer confined to a given community, all the residents of Juba, those who are staying in Juba, they are now in danger,” Gen Lul stated.
“We are in danger of having our children being abducted, not by only one actor, but by different actors. Not from far, but from even your neighbourhood.”
Military authorities stressed that the discovery of an active network inside Juba heightens immediate security concerns for families across the city.
The armed forces have urged residents to cooperate closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and sharing any information that could assist in tracking down missing minors and dismantling the trafficking ring.
Authorities confirmed that ongoing investigations are active, and suspects will face formal legal proceedings as evidence is compiled.
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