(RUMBEK, LAKES STATE) – The Bank of South Sudan has denied reports circulating on social media that its Rumbek Currency Branch was looted during recent violence in Rumbek town.
In a press statement, the bank said the claims were false and urged the public and media outlets to stop spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary public alarm and undermining public confidence.
The bank said it takes the security of its facilities and the integrity of its operations with the utmost seriousness as a national institution entrusted with safeguarding the national currency and maintaining monetary and financial stability.
The statement was issued after intercommunal fighting in Rumbek on 8th and 9th October left about 71 people dead, including four soldiers, according to government estimates .
The fighting involved armed youths from the Pakam community in Rumbek North County and the Nyang community in Rumbek Central County .
The bank urged the public to disregard the false reports and rely only on its official communication channels for accurate and verified information.
Authorities imposed a 14 day night curfew in Rumbek Central County on 12th October to prevent further violence and revenge attacks .
The curfew runs daily from 6:30 pm to 7 am.
Acting County Commissioner Padhil Maker Dhuol said the restriction was not meant to punish residents but to protect lives and property .
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan deployed peacekeepers from Nepal to protect civilians and critical facilities, including Rumbek State Hospital .
UNMISS also evacuated 17 humanitarian workers trapped in Amok Payam, north of Rumbek, amid fears for their safety.
