By Deng Athian
Twenty-two youths who had been detained at the Giada military facility have been released following the intervention of Aweil community elder, Amb. Garang Deng Aguer, after days of uncertainty surrounding their arrest.
The youths were initially apprehended in Jebel Iraq, an area known for gold mining activities, and later transferred to Giada, where they remained in detention until their release.
Their arrest had raised concern among community members, particularly families who claimed many of the detainees were engaged in livelihood activities at the time.
Speaking to the media after securing their release, Amb. Garang said the breakthrough came after direct engagement with the chief of defence forces, who, according to him, distanced himself from the arrests and ordered corrective action.
“These young people were not criminals as alleged. Many were simply trying to earn a living at the mining sites. I engaged the leadership, and I am grateful that justice has prevailed, and they have now been released,” Amb. Garang stated.
He expressed appreciation to the government and Maj. Gen. Akuei for facilitating the process, noting that their cooperation was instrumental in resolving the matter.
The elder used the opportunity to advise the youths to remain law-abiding and to avoid harmful behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use, urging them instead to focus on productive and responsible activities.
A representative of the released group, speaking on behalf of the others, dismissed claims that the youths had been involved in internal fighting.
He said several were arrested at their workplaces, while others were picked up at the mining wells without a clear explanation.
Of the 22 released, 19 are from the Aweil community, two are from the Twic community in Warrap State, and one, identified as Ishmael, is from the Nuba Mountains.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns over arrests linked to informal mining areas, where enforcement actions have at times drawn criticism from affected communities