South Sudan: Violent prison riot in Juba Oct. 7

Event

A violent prison riot was reported at the Blue House detention facility in Juba on the morning (local time) of Sunday, October 7. According to security officials, some 15 inmates seized control of part of the detention facility after overpowering and disarming several prison guards. Local sources report that the prison revolt was instigated by a captain in the National Security Service (NSS) currently incarcerated at the Blue House detention facility, to protest his detention without a trial. A heightened security presence, and associated traffic disruptions, is anticipated around the prison in the coming hours.

Advice

Many Western governments advise against nonessential travel to South Sudan. Certain regions should be particularly avoided, including the former states of Unity and Upper Nile, the north of former Warrap state, parts of the former Eastern and Central Equatoria states, and areas along the border with the Central African Republic, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If travel is necessary, ensure that proper security protocols are in place.