Justice Ministry Concludes Investigations into Nasir Attacks

(NASIR COUNTY) – The Government of South Sudan has announced the conclusion of investigations into the Nasir incident, a violent episode that took place from 3 to 7 March 2025 and left hundreds dead, including senior military officers and humanitarian staff.

In a press briefing held in Juba on 11 September 2025, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs presented the findings of the inquiry, stating that the Nasir attacks were carried out by the White Army, a militant armed group, against South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) positions. The assault resulted in the death of Major General David Majur Dak, more than 250 SSPDF soldiers, and a United Nations pilot.

The investigation established that the White Army operated with the influence and coordination of figures associated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition (SPLM/A-iO). Among those named was the group’s political leader, Dr Riek Machar Teny, who was alleged to have exercised both military and political authority during the events.

According to the Ministry, evidence showed violations of international humanitarian law, including desecration of corpses, targeting of civilians  and attacks on humanitarian workers. The government described these acts as gross breaches of the Geneva Conventions.

The investigation committee interrogated 83 individuals. Out of these, 21 were indicted. Eight were charged and placed under arrest, while 13 remain at large. A total of 76 suspects were released due to insufficient evidence.

Those formally charged include Dr Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon, Mr Puot Kang Chol, Lieutenant General Gabriel Duop Lam, Mr Mam Pal Dhuor, Mr Gatwich Lam Puoch, Brigadier General Camilo Gatmai Kel, Mr Mading Riek Yak, and Mr Dominic Gatrgok Riek.

The charges filed under South Sudanese and international law cover a range of offences, including:

The Ministry stressed that due process has been followed, with all accused persons informed of their rights, including the right to legal representation. The government reaffirmed its obligations under the Geneva Conventions and other international instruments, emphasising that victims and witnesses will be protected.

The case will proceed to trial in the competent courts, where prosecutors will be required to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt. Court summons for the accused will be issued accordingly.

Addressing the international community, the government requested that the matter be treated as a judicial process, not a subject for political or diplomatic debate, while proceedings are underway. Accredited media will have access to cover the opening and closing of trial sessions in line with best practice on transparency.

The Justice Minister closed the briefing by declaring that perpetrators of atrocities against South Sudan’s armed forces, civilians, and humanitarian personnel will face accountability regardless of their status or political power. He said the victims and their families deserve justice, while the people of South Sudan deserve peace.

The statement concluded with a call for unity and respect for the rule of law as the foundation of the country’s constitutional order.