In a significant operation, the South Sudan National Police Service has rescued 12 suspected victims of human trafficking in Juba.
The victims, comprising two Eritrean and nine Somali nationals, were rescued in the Mangateen residential area, a suburb of Juba, on January 6, 2025.
According to Col. John Kassara Koang Nhial, police spokesperson, the victims are currently being held by the police while an investigation is conducted.
“An investigation is ongoing, as there is a suspected network in smuggling,” Nhial said, adding that details surrounding their rescue and how they entered the country are still unclear.
The rescue operation is a notable step in South Sudan’s efforts to combat human trafficking.
The country has faced challenges in addressing this issue, with reports indicating that authorities have not adequately investigated or prosecuted trafficking crimes in recent years.
In addition to the rescue operation, Col. Nhial reported on the general situation across the country, stating that it has been calm and normal over the past two days, with only minor incidents reported in certain states.
These incidents included the death of a 60-year-old major general, a attempted suicide by a 20-year-old female, and a fatal assault in Awiel East County.
