Five soldiers of the South Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) were found guilty of murdering and raping civilians in Jongei State, South Sudan.

CEOAFRICA.com gathered that the soldiers  were among more than 30 others arrested since August for violating the military code of conduct in Jonglei state, where right groups have accused the South Sudanese army of committing serious human rights abuses, including rape and murder.

According to SPLA spokesman, Philip Aguer, two other soldiers were convicted of rape and 24 others were found guilty of unprofessional conduct, including being intoxicated while on duty. They were discharged from the army with immediate effect.

He also said some of the soldiers convicted were sentenced to imprisonment ranging from one to five years by the military tribunal.