The joint operation team in Yei, implementing the presidential order of banning social gathering due to COVID-19, has detained several Church leaders for violating the decree.
Last month, South Sudan’s president banned all social gatherings, including sporting events, religious events, weddings and political activities, due to the fear of coronavirus.
But some Christians, including church leaders still go for prayers on Sundays.
Speaking to Radio Easter, Pastor in charge of Sudan Pentecostal Church in Yei, Ezra Lasuba explained that it took them by surprise when they saw soldiers entering the Church, collecting the musical instruments and instructing him to follow them.
He said some Christians were seeking spiritual guidance that’s why he allowed them to join prayers.
The pastor said the Church observed social distancing as they were praying.
He recalled that the Church stood firm during the civil war so that peace prevails in the country and that they will also put more efforts to pray to God, so that He clears corona virus away from South Sudan and the whole world.
Reverend Lasuba said while praying to God against the current situation, he respects and implements the precautionary measures to safeguard people from the virus.
James Victor, in charge of the joint operation team implementing the presidential decree, said the forces detained the religious leaders for violating the order of banning religious events.
He did not tell the exact number of the church leaders detained, but mentions that the detainees were from Sudan Pentecostal and Immanuel Cathedral Churches respectively,
Meanwhile, Director for Counter Intelligence Lieutenant Canon Kawac Guol Riak said any Christian who continues with communal prayers is against the president’s order.
He warned that any person found violating the order will be punished.
Following continues spread of the COVID-19 in the country; the national taskforce has extended the lockdown until further notice.
So far, six cases have been confirmed in South Sudan.