Congolese Detainees Freed After Border Arrests in Morobo

(MOROBO COUNTY) – Two remaining Congolese civilians held by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces have been released to a Congolese chief, ending a brief border standoff that began after seven people were arrested over alleged links to rebel activity.

The seven Congolese nationals were detained on Tuesday 30 June 2026 in Irri village near Karagba, along the border between South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The SSPDF made the arrests on suspicion of involvement with rebel elements. The area has seen growing insecurity, with an alleged holdout group of the National Salvation Front accused of destabilising communities along the border through road ambushes on travellers and cattle raiding.

The arrests led to the temporary closure of the border crossing at Karagba between the two countries. Five of the seven detainees were released earlier. The final two were handed over on Wednesday 2 July.

The Commissioner of Morobo County, Joseph, visited the Isebi army garrison to secure the release of the remaining two Congolese youths. He stated the importance of the national army maintaining cordial working relations with the civilian population.

Chief Tsukia Likambo David of the Kakuwa community in Congo received the two youths and praised the Commissioner for his efforts to improve relations between the two sides. He called for better collaboration, joint work relations and improved sharing of essential information along the border.

The Commissioner acknowledged the Chief’s appreciation and urged the two administrations to coordinate closely to ensure both sides of the border are safe and free from criminal activity, so that civilians can enjoy peace.