Shooting Incident at Former Spy Chief’s Residence Under Investigation

Shooting Incident at Former Spy Chief’s Residence Under Investigation

Shooting Incident at Former Spy Chief’s Residence Under Investigation

By Baraka John

A shooting incident occurred in the evening of Thursday 21st 2024, at the residence of former spy chief general Akol Koor Kuc, involving security forces deployed to provide extra protection.

According to Gen. Lul Rua Koung, initial reports from the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), General Santino, the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding between two levels of security forces stationed at the compound.

While speaking at Radio Miraya shortly after the incident, the SSPDF spokesperson said the shooting began around 30 minutes ago at the residence of the former spy chief, where an outer protection platoon had been deployed as part of enhanced security measures, alongside an internal security team providing closer protection. The nature of the misunderstanding between these two groups remains unclear, but it escalated to gunfire, resulting in two soldiers being shot and wounded.

"General Santino was quick to respond, rushing to the scene to de-escalate the situation. “I ordered the forces to cease hostilities immediately,” he said in a statement. He continued, “The situation is being contained, and an investigation will take place tomorrow to determine exactly what led to the confrontation.” Lul asserted.

In the wake of the shooting, the CDF has assured the public that the situation is under control. “While there was a brief exchange of gunfire, we are confident that the matter will not escalate further,” Lul added. "Our forces are in the process of securing the area, and we advise everyone to remain at their locations until further updates are provided."

Despite the confusion surrounding the cause of the incident, authorities emphasized that it remains a limited and contained shooting. As of now, no additional threats have been reported, and residents near the area have been urged to stay indoors until more information is available.

The investigation into the cause of the misunderstanding will begin tomorrow, with military authorities working to clarify the circumstances of the shooting.

The former spy chief General Akol Kur was fired by president Salva Kiir in October 2024 in a presidential decree replacing him with Gen Akec Tong Aleu.