Heavy gunfire erupted in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, on Thursday evening, sparking concerns of renewed conflict.
The incident is linked to the arrest of the former head of the National Security Service (NSS), Akol Koor Kuc.
The shooting began around 7 p.m. local time and continued for over an hour before subsiding.
A UN safety alert confirmed the connection between the gunfire and the arrest, urging UN staff to shelter in place.
President Salva Kiir dismissed Kuc in early October, replacing him with a loyal ally.
This move has been seen as a reflection of the ongoing power struggle within the government.
The 2013-2018 civil war between factions loyal to Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar resulted in significant loss of life.
Despite the formation of a transitional government, tensions persist, and sporadic clashes continue to occur.
The latest incident highlights the fragility of the peace in South Sudan and raises fears of a return to widespread violence.