JUBA – Three civilians were released from detention at Giada military barrack on Sunday following their arbitrary arrest at a tea place at Hai Thoura neighbourhood on August 26.
According to a family member who spoke to Juba Witness, the men in their 40s were taken to military custody of the joint operation force in Juba at 5PM, under unclear circumstances.
John, (not his real name) said the individuals he identified as ordinary civilians were then transferred to the Giada military barrack, without charges.
The detained men are Gatjang Dagor, Gatdiet Peter, and Mathap Koang.
However, one of them, Gatdiet, took to social media on Sunday, August 31, to confirm their release while commending the security authorities for treating them well.
“Dear all, my brothers; Masaap Koang, Gatjang Dagor and I are released unhurt,” he said.
“All our belongings are returned in a good condition. We really appreciate anyone who exerted effort, influence and support for our release. We also appreciate the carefulness shown to us by the authorities.”
Efforts to reach national police spokesperson Maj. Gen. Monday Enoka were not immediately successful.
Previously, John said family members visited Giada on August 27, but were denied permission to meet the detained men.
“Around five, one of them were called in a police station near them, what is called Sector. But the two later went to follow their brother,” he said.
“After a short while, they were told that you go and sit in the place. It is just a small issue. After a short moment, a military vehicle came from Tiger and picked the three men.”
“Up to now, we were not allowed to talk to them or to check exactly if they are in Tiger or they were transferred to other locations.”
He then made a passionage appeal to the government to locate the detainees and “release them without question, because these were committed no crime and they are ordinary citizens.”
