A key prosecution witness has told a special court in Juba that suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar personally ordered the distribution of military tanks to SPLA-IO forces and allied White Army fighters following the deadly Nasir attack in Upper Nile State.
Testifying before the court, Sgt. Mayen Kuol Chan, a bodyguard to the late Maj. Gen. David Majur Dak, said Dr. Riek Machar issued the directive via phone communication shortly after government forces were overrun in Nasir County in March 2025.
According to the key witness, Dr. Riek Machar instructed that four tanks seized during the assault be allocated among his loyal forces.
One tank was reportedly reserved for SPLA-IO leadership, while the remaining three were handed over to White Army fighters from the Cie-Lang, Cie-Yal, and Cie-Manyiel sub-clans of the Jikany Nuer community.
Sgt. Kuol further testified that Dr. Riek Machar assured Maj. Gen. Majur of a safe evacuation by United Nations helicopters and advised that weapons be left inside armored personnel carriers (APCs).
However, the evacuation allegedly turned tragic when SPLA-IO officers escorting the wounded general dropped him before fatally shooting him, leading to his death.
The court also heard that Brig. Gen.Koang Mayom later took control of the tanks and carried out Dr. Riek Machar’s distributing instructions.
Following the attack, Sgt. Kuol said he was captured by White Army fighters who initially demanded $10,000 for his release.
Sgt. Kuol family later secured his freedom after paying $6,000.
Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused are facing multiple charges, including murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity.
Prosecutors allege that more than 250 SSPDF soldiers were killed during the Nasir assault, with military equipment worth an estimated $58 million destroyed or seized.
The court is expected to resume hearings on January 7, when defense lawyers will cross-examine the witness.
