By Deng Ghai Deng
Authorities in Nasir County, Upper Nile State said an attack by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), on Wednesday, has resulted in the deaths of four civilians, including a woman. At least 14 others, mostly women and children were injured.
County Commissioner James Gatluak confirmed the incident in an interview with No. 1 Citizen Newspaper on Thursday, expressing his profound condemnation of the assault.
“The incident occurred at 3 PM while I was in the office. It was a planned attack on civilians by the SSPDF. They had strategically deployed in three directions: Nasir West, Nasir South, and Central Nasir, targeting the main market, airstrip, and riverside. The fighting lasted for 3 hours,” Gatluak stated.
In addition to the civilian casualties, Gatluak reported that 13 attackers were killed during the confrontation.
The motives behind the national army’s aggressive actions remain unclear.
Further compounding the situation, Gatluak noted that another attack took place on Thursday morning, lasting from 9:00 to 9:34 AM, although no injuries were reported from this incident.
He also revealed that both his office and residence were targeted in bombings, raising concerns about the safety of local officials.
“It is alarming that our own military would turn their weapons against the very people they are meant to protect,” he added.
Commissioner Gatluak is calling for immediate investigations and accountability for those responsible for the attack, as tensions continue to escalate in Upper Nile State.
Contacted for comments, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the SSPDF, acknowledged awareness of the incident but stated he could not provide further details without authorization from his superior, Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol.
“Just a few minutes ago I got the information, but the big problem is that my boss went to the presidency, and up until now, he has not come. He is the one that normally gives me final approval,” Lul explained.