ISTANBUL
The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) confirmed on Wednesday that officers were involved in the killing of 16 civilians, including eight children and five women, last month in Jonglei state, local media reported.
The army has acknowledged the killings in Jonglei, detaining two officers and several non-commissioned personnel, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang told Eye Radio news website.
“We also regret the loss of life attributed to some elements within the force. Because we do not condone such actions, we took immediate measures,” he said.
“This is a legal matter,” Koang said, adding that the suspects will face murder charges and that a general court-martial will examine the circumstances of the civilian deaths and injuries.
He vowed that those responsible would face strict punishment under military law, intended to deter any abuse of authority.
“Sentences will be determined based on their level of involvement in the crimes, with the general court-martial determining the burden of guilt,” the spokesperson said.
The EU, nine embassies, and local groups condemned the February 21 attack in Pankor village, Ayod County, calling for justice and an end to the escalating violence.
South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, gained independence in July 2011 but descended into civil war in December 2013 after President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed then-Vice President Machar, accusing him of plotting a coup.
Despite the 2018 peace agreement and the formation of a transitional unity government, clashes and political tensions have persisted.
Fighting between the SSPDF and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO), led by Oyet Nathaniel, deputy chair of the SPLM-IO, has intensified since December of last year in northern Jonglei.
Tensions escalated in 2025, revealing deep divisions within the transitional government established under the 2018 peace agreement. Clashes were first reported in January in the Western Equatoria State and spread northward.
Suspended First Vice President Machar has been under house arrest since March 2025 and faces serious charges, including murder, treason, and crimes against humanity.
