Human rights activist and Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), Ter Manyang, has strongly condemned the brutal gang rape of a young girl in Shirikat, Juba, calling for immediate accountability and justice.
On Thursday, a video surfaced online showing a young girl
being gang-raped in the Shirikat area of Juba, by a group of over five young
men sparking widespread outrage among community members and activists.
“The CPA calls on law enforcement agencies and relevant
authorities to immediately investigate this case and ensure that all
perpetrators are arrested and held accountable in accordance with the law,” Manyang
said.
According to the advocacy group, the victim’s family said the
girl was attacked by a gang group while returning from the market.
Manyang urged the Government to enact and enforce
comprehensive family protection laws that address gender-based violence and
safeguard the rights, safety, and dignity of women and girls across the
country.
“The Center for Peace and Advocacy stands in full solidarity
with the victim and her family during this incredibly difficult time,” he
added.
“We reaffirm our commitment to advocating for justice,
accountability, and the protection of vulnerable members of our society.”
Maj. Gen. James Monday Enoka, the national police spokesperson, told The Radio Tamazuj that the Inspector General of Police immediately ordered the arrest of the suspects, resulting in the apprehension of seven individuals.
“The IGP directed the assistant inspector general for
criminal investigations to deploy a special force to apprehend the criminals,”
Enoka said. “I am happy to say the criminals have been arrested,
and the investigation is underway. The case will be taken to court.”
The survivor is currently receiving treatment at a health
facility, as demands for justice and accountability grow among the public and
human rights activists.
South Sudan’s Penal Code of 2008 penalizes rape with up to
14 years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
