South Sudan arrests 17 over rape of aid workers

Authorities in South Sudan on Wednesday confirmed the arrest of 17 people, including soldiers, over the rape of aid workers during clashes between rival forces in July.

Deputy Justice Minister Martinson Oturomoi, who headed a committee to investigate the incident, said both the victims and eye witnesses interviewed by the committee identified the gang that raped aid workers while ransacking a compound manned by a relief agency in the capital Juba on July 11.

"We managed to arrest 17 suspects whose involvement in the rape of aid workers and theft of commodities meant for displaced persons is beyond doubt," Oturomoi told reporters.

His committee recommended a special court to be formed urgently to try the suspects.

President Salva Kiir ordered the formation of the six-member committee in August following an outcry from the international community.

Renewed fighting between government troops led by President Kiir and forces loyal to sacked First Vice President, Kiir's long-time rival, broke out in early July, raising fears the country could slide back into civil war. Endit