Violence Erupts at Former Spy Chief’s Residence in South Sudan

A gun battle erupted at the home of sacked spy chief General Akol Koor Kuc in South Sudan, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and two civilians. The cause remains unclear, with reports suggesting a misunderstanding among military troops. Gen Kuc had recently been dismissed from his position and placed under house arrest, raising concerns about internal power struggles in the government.

Confusion and uncertainty envelop South Sudan following the violent encounter at the residence of former spy chief General Akol Koor Kuc. The gunfight, which persisted for over 50 minutes on Thursday night in Juba, led local business owners to shutter their doors as they sought safety amidst the chaos. Gen Kuc, who had recently been dismissed from his position as head of the National Security Services (NSS) and placed under house arrest, was unharmed during the incident. The unrest resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and two civilians caught unaware, a tragic consequence of what was described by an army spokesperson as a “serious misunderstanding” among troops stationed at Gen Kuc’s home.

Fears of ongoing instability following South Sudan’s civil war were reignited as residents experienced gunfire in close proximity. The defense forces reported that the two slain civilians—a student and a lawyer—were in the vicinity of Gen Kuc’s home when they fell victim to the crossfire. An investigation has been initiated to discern the precise cause of the gunfight, which has yet to be fully explained by the authorities.

General Lul Ruai Koang, the army spokesperson, noted that the security at Gen Kuc’s residence had previously been augmented following a warning about his patrol restrictions. It remains unclear what triggered the subsequent miscommunication among the soldiers, resulting in a brief but deadly outbreak of violence. In response to the incident, General Santino Deng, head of South Sudan’s defense forces, promptly intervened to cease the fire.

General Kuc, who is speculated to be in his late 50s or early 60s, was viewed by some analysts as a potential successor to President Salva Kiir prior to his ousting on October 2. His brief appointment as governor of Warrap State was initially seen as a strategic move to prepare him for political life in the hopes of stabilizing one of South Sudan’s conflict-ridden areas. However, this role was rescinded shortly thereafter, heightening concerns about internal power struggles within the government. Following this tumultuous series of events, Gen Kuc has been relocated to another residence in Jebel, south of Juba, as the situation continues to develop.

The political landscape in South Sudan has been tumultuous since the onset of civil war in 2013. Despite a peace agreement in 2018, violence still permeates various regions, including the capital Juba. General Akol Koor Kuc, once a significant figure within President Salva Kiir’s government, was recently removed from the National Security Services, underlining ongoing tensions at high levels of governance. His sacking and subsequent treatment have raised questions about internal political dynamics and security protocols, emphasizing the fragile state of South Sudanese governance.

In summary, the recent gun battle involving General Akol Koor Kuc has highlighted the continuing instability and confusion surrounding South Sudan’s political situation. With multiple fatalities and unresolved questions regarding security personnel conduct, the incident exemplifies the persistent risks that citizens face, even in urban centers. The government’s actions and the investigation’s outcomes may further illuminate the complexities of power struggles in this fragile nation, where safety remains a paramount concern for its populace.

Original Source: www.bbc.com