Gen. Gordon Buay:Gabriel Changson and Makuac Teny arrested in Gambella

Dear media and the people of South Sudan,

I am here to inform the media that the regional government of Gambella, in consultation with the federal government of Ethiopia, arrested Makuac Teny, former Minister of Culture and Sport and Gabriel Changson Chang, former Minister of Tourism and Wildlife.

The Ethiopian Federal Police arrested Makuac Teny on April, 10 and detained Gabriel Changson today. Both are now in Karchale prison in Gambella town and will appear in court on Monday. Both were caught red-handed with seven drums of fuel and 600 boots destined for rebels of Riek Machar.

It has to be recalled that Ethiopian Government signed Border Security Agreement with South Sudan in August, 2011. One of the articles of the agreement stipulates that "no rebel activities should be allowed by either party to take place around the border".

On Monday, the deportation process will begin. The Federal Police will commence to deport the two men to Juba the same way South Sudan government deported Ethiopian rebels to Addis Ababa last year.

The Government of South Sudan profoundly appreciates the seriousness of Ethiopian government to maintain secure at the border. Riek Machar's rebels should not be allowed to buy fuel, food and other materials to destabilize South Sudan. Riek Machar's rebellion is a threat to peace in the region and can slow down economic prosperity of Ethiopia in general and Gambella in particular.

The detention of Gabriel Changson and Makuach Teny is an excellent move. The government of South Sudan is looking forward to receiving them at Juba International Airport.

Gen. Gordon Buay