Eight Arrested as SSPDF Investigates Alleged Juba–Pibor Child-Trafficking Network

The SSPDF says 23 children were reported missing in Suk Darfur and eight suspects were arrested. Its allegations and recovery figures need independent verification.

SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang announced on 17 October that military intelligence had detained eight people in connection with alleged abduction and trafficking from Suk Darfur in Juba’s Mangateen area. Eye Radio and Radio Tamazuj both reported the briefing; their accounts principally relay the same military source, rather than independent confirmation of the underlying allegations.

According to the spokesperson, 23 children had been reported missing from the neighbourhood. He said one child had been recovered from Pibor after about 20 days and reunited with family, while eight others had been traced to people suspected of holding them but had not been physically recovered at the time of the briefing. The record and status of all 23 cases have not been independently reconciled. South Sudan Press is withholding the recovered child’s name and any identifying details.

Suspects and due process

The military says three personnel, described as mostly deserters, and civilians are among those detained. It alleges that different suspects enticed children, concealed them and arranged transfers. These assertions, including any alleged destination or payment, have not been tested in court. No suspect should be described as guilty. The spokesperson said those with a military background would face military proceedings and civilian suspects would be transferred to police.

Eye Radio reports that a former Greater Pibor official was mentioned during the briefing in connection with a property used by another person; the official reportedly denied knowledge. The sources reviewed do not establish that the former official was arrested or charged. His alleged connection should not be stated as proven.

The urgent child-protection task

Police and child-protection authorities should publish an anonymised register separating reports received, children located, children physically recovered and families contacted, with dates and methods. They should also explain the status of the eight reportedly traced children, safeguarding for witnesses, survivor care and the legal basis for choosing military proceedings. Families with information should contact the National Police or recognised child-protection services directly; unverified photographs and addresses should not be circulated publicly.

Sources: Eye Radio report of SSPDF briefing; Radio Tamazuj report. Status reviewed 18 October 2026.