June 4th 2019 (Nyamilepedia) – A report by a human rights group has accused South Sudan army of committing atrocities against civilians in Central Equatoria’s Yei River state.
“Civilians are being targeted, killed, and raped, as government operations try to root out rebels in Yei River state,”Jehanne Henry, the Associate Africa Director at Human Rights Watch said.
“All parties need to put a stop to the crimes against civilians and ensure accountability, while the government should help people regain their homes and livelihoods,” added Henry.
The report said between March 14 and 21, the rights group said it interviewed 72 displaced people in Yei River state who claimed that they witnessed government operations in various locations in Mukaya and Otogo counties of Yei River state.
The report also accused opposition troops of committing similar atrocities during fighting with government forces but failed to identify which rebels.
“While government soldiers were responsible for most of the abuses in the recent operations, rebel groups have over the past two years also attacked civilians and prevented aid workers from reaching civilians in need,” it said.
