Army responds to accusations of SSPDF profiteering from illegal logging in Pageri

The army has responded to claims of military officers’ involvement in massive illegal logging in Pageri, Torit State. 

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in the opposition (SPLM/A-IO) conducted an investigation into the reports and says large chunks of forest reserves were cut at the height of the conflict when the civilian population had fled to neighbouring countries.

The Deputy spokesperson of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, Brig Gen Santo Domic acknowledges that individuals within the army are involved in the mass deforestation but says he is is not aware of the illegal profiteering by senior army and security officers.

Brigadier Gen Domic says the command office will investigate the reports of illegal sale.

He spoke to Sworor Charles Elisha in this interview.