Gunfire reported near Juba trial of South Sudan's First Vice President Riek Machar

Panic occurred in Juba on Friday after gunshots were heard near the Customs Freedom Hall, where the trial of suspended First Vice President Riek Machar and seven co-accused was taking place.

Key points

• The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, confirmed an investigation into the incident is underway.
• Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), stated the gunfire was an isolated dispute between soldiers near the Garang Mausoleum.
• Authorities have cautioned civil society members against speaking on behalf of the military regarding the event.

Why it matters

The incident occurred during a high-profile trial involving a key figure in South Sudan's fragile peace process, raising immediate security concerns in the capital.