GoSS Condemns Attack On Foreigners

The Government of Southern Sudan has condemned an insecurity threat that targeted foreigners living in the semi-autonomous region.

The GoSS Minister of Internal Affairs Gier Chuang Aluong condemned the incident, describing the attackers as “enemies of peace and the referendum”.

The statement came in the wake of reports that five people were shot dead and 14 others wounded in western Juba last Friday.

The incident coincided with the arrival of GoSS President Salva Kiir Mayardit back into the country from the UN Assembly meeting in New York.

The acting Minister of Information Madut Biar said the dead included two Ugandans and three Sudanese nationals.

Biar, who is also the GoSS Minister of Telecommunication and Postal Services, said an unknown gunman opened fire at Customs market, located at the West of South Sudan’s capital, Juba.

“The GOSS condemns the incident which is barbaric. We believe it is part of an attempt planned by anti-peace and referendum crusaders to divert attention”, Madut said.

He said the incident is aimed at misdirecting GOSS in its objective and vision of maintaining peace and conducting the referendum process scheduled for January 9, 2011.

He said investigations into the incident have been launched, adding that the culprits will be brought to book once apprehended.

Authorities of the Ugandan Consulate in Juba did not speak to Gurtong when contacted on Wednesday.