Jonglei State authorities have vowed to hold accountable self-proclaimed spiritual leader Makua̱ch Tut and his group, who are accused of ransacking humanitarian consignments in Ayod County.
The incident disrupted critical relief operations for disaster-hit populations.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Communication on Saturday, Minister of Information and Communication, Nyamar Lony Thichot described the incident as unlawful, irresponsible, and immoral, warning that it poses a grave violation of humanitarian principles and endangers already vulnerable communities.
“The actions of Mr. Makua̱ch Tut and his accomplices have directly undermined the safety and dignity of civilians, obstructed relief operations, and put countless lives at further risk,” she said.
According to the government, the ransacking of relief supplies threatens the survival of thousands of disaster-affected families who rely on aid following years of flooding and displacement in Jonglei.
The Ministry of Information stressed that humanitarian assistance is neutral and impartial, cautioning against any attempts to politicize, manipulate, or disrupt aid delivery.
The state government has called on law enforcement authorities to hold Mr. Tut and his group accountable, urged community leaders to distance themselves from such actions, and appealed to humanitarian partners to continue supporting affected communities despite the challenges.
Long reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding humanitarian space.
“We remain united in ensuring that assistance reaches those in dire need without hindrance,” she said.
The condemnation comes at a time when humanitarian agencies are struggling to respond to widespread flooding across Jonglei State, which has left thousands displaced and heavily dependent on relief aid for survival.
