Sources say the arrest was carried out by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Rumbek East County. The operation was reportedly ordered by Lakes State Governor, Gen. Rin Tueny, although officials have not provided any explanation for the journalist’s detention. Concerns are mounting over the lack of transparency surrounding the incident.
Relatives and local activists say Manyang was arrested under unclear circumstances on Saturday. The journalist is said to be in poor health following a recent surgery, which has raised alarm over his treatment while in custody. His family and colleagues are urgently seeking answers from the authorities.
Civil society activist Daniel Laat Kon confirmed the arrest and said he had spoken to Manyang’s wife. “She verified that he is detained in Mabor-duong. No official reason has been given,” Kon told Radio Tamazuj. “This facility is meant for criminals, not journalists. It’s a disturbing move that sets a dangerous precedent.”
Abak Jacob, a close relative of the detained journalist, said the family is making efforts to reach him. “We’ve learned that his health is deteriorating, and security personnel have taken away all his phones,” she stated. “It seems this situation is work-related, not something personal.”
Efforts to get an official response have so far been unsuccessful. Lakes State’s acting information minister, William Koji, declined to comment when contacted by journalists. The silence from government officials is only intensifying concerns over the case.
Journalists in South Sudan continue to face harassment, intimidation, and unlawful detention. On this year’s World Press Freedom Day, many reporters expressed their fears about shrinking media freedoms in the country. The arrest of Manyang Mayom Meen is now being seen as yet another blow to press freedom in South Sudan.
