Outcry over raids on civilians in South Sudan capital

Civilians have complained of harassment as soldiers continue to mount unannounced raids on homes and business addresses in South Sudan's capital, Juba.

The army however says its operations have been a success, saying that soldiers have seized thousands of deadly weapons including assault rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, and machetes.

More than 120 Juba residents have formally complained to a local NGO called Community Empowerment for Progress Organisation.

Its boss Edmund Yakani told the BBC that those complaining said security forces stormed their houses without prior notification, saying they were looking for weapons.

Foreign nationals have also complained of being harassed by troops who they say searched their vehicles and accommodation, Mr Yakani added.

An army spokesman apologised "to all those who were negatively affected by the exercise" on Thursday in response to the outcry.

"Special apology goes to members of diplomatic corps, UN, NGOs, and other dignitaries for all forms of inconveniences caused," wrote South Sudan People’s Defence Forces spokesman Maj Gen Lul Ruai Koang on Facebook.