Major General. Lul Ruai Addresses Media Following South Sudan Security Clash: Four Dead Amid Miscommunication
By Majur Chol Khor
In a high-stakes emergency media briefing on Friday evening, Major General Lul Ruai, spokesperson for the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), gave clarity on a recent armed confrontation that unfolded in Thongpiny, near the residence of former Security Chief General Akol Akol. Describing the incident as a miscommunication between security forces, Ruai addressed concerns over the incident that resulted in four fatalities, including two servicemen and two civilians.
“Ladies and gentlemen of the media, thank you for being here on short notice,” Ruai stated from the SSBC Studios, emphasizing the importance of the situation at hand. He revisited the background following General Akol’s appointment as the Director General of the Internal Security Bureau and subsequent changes to his position. Akol was recently instructed to relocate due to heightened security measures in Thongpiny, an area housing several diplomatic missions.
“Initial orders were given to restrict General Akol’s movement for his safety and the security of the area,” Ruai explained. The complex security deployment involved multiple forces operating under different commands, which culminated in confusion and an unfortunate escalation of tensions.
As the situation escalated on Thursday, gunfire erupted between the confused security units. After significant sporadic fighting, general Ruai reported, the Chief of Staff intervened to de-escalate hostilities. By early Friday, SSPDF leadership convened an urgent security meeting to address the unfolding crisis.
“After constructive dialogue, General Akol has agreed to relocate to his new residence with minimal personnel,” Ruai announced, reassuring citizens that he is not facing house arrest but simply changing locations.
Tragically, the confrontation left four people dead and two civilians injured, with additional casualties resulting from armored personnel carriers clashing with civilian lives. “We express our condolences for the lives lost and recommit to ensuring such misunderstandings do not happen again,” Ruai noted.
As business returns to normal in the capital, the SSPDF aims to restore public confidence and maintain peace while reviewing internal procedures to prevent future incidents.
“The leadership has demonstrated exceptional resolve in a challenging situation, and we remain hopeful that South Sudan can continue on the path toward stability,” concluded Ruai.
