South Sudanese photojournalist Abraham Aleu Anyieth Aleu has finally been released after spending almost a month in detention without any formal charges. His lawyer revealed that Aleu’s freedom came about due to the strong international outcry and legal intervention.
Aleu was forcibly taken from his home in Bor, Jonglei State on June 29 by a joint team of the police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the National Security Service (NSS). During his time in detention, he reported facing torture and mistreatment.
In an interview with Radio Tamazuj, Aleu expressed his gratitude for finally being free and reunited with his family. His release was a result of pressure from local human rights groups, UN agencies, and international observers.
Aleu was accused by local authorities of being involved in recent civil unrest in Bor, but a court order for his release was issued by Judge John Yel of the Jonglei State High Court due to lack of evidence to support the charges.
The arrest of Aleu has sparked concerns among human rights advocates and international organizations, with Amnesty International warning against recent security legislation granting broad arrest powers to the NSS without warrants.