By Kei Emmanuel Duku
Five women have been raped during clashes between Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) forces and South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) soldiers in Western Equatoria state.
Commissioner of Nagero County in Western Equatoria State reports that three other women are critical condition following military confrontations, last Friday.
In a press release, Commissioner, Henry Bangada Assaya stated that the women were raped within Nagero Town when SSPDF soldiers, stormed Nagero County.
The attack also resulted in the burning of homes, and the looting of businesses, which he described as gross human rights violations. Some of the affected Payams include Zamoi, Bandala, and the northern part of Nagero County.
“I condemn these barbaric and inhuman acts in the strongest terms possible,” Bangada said. “They (SSPDF) assaulted and looted three traders, robbing them of goods and cash amounting to 17,350,000 SSP.”
The Commissioner confirmed that innocent civilians were subjected to severe beatings, resulting in the deaths of seven people, and many others are now homeless, having sought refuge in nearby bushes for fear of their lives.
He accused the SSPDF of destroying two healthcare centers in Duma, Bandala, and Zamoi areas, denying the community members access to healthcare services.
Bangada said the crimes committed by the soldiers are not only a violation of national laws but also acts of terror against the people of Nagero County and a direct assault on peace, stability, and the rule of law.
He argued that the government soldiers deliberately destroyed people’s property and livelihoods, despite being mandated to protect civilians’ lives and property. These actions, he said, should be condemned under both national and international law.
He, however, said the heavy deployment of soldiers in Nagero County has created tension and fear among civilians.
Stating that the tension between government forces and SPLM-IO began when the state government confirmed the departure of Division 6 Commander Gen. James Akech and Gen. Nando without notifying state authorities.
Although he could not give details of the way about of the army commander, Bangada said this has resulted in the illegal deployment of armed forces under the pretense of dismantling a checkpoint.
The County Administrator questioned why the deployment targeted only Nagero County, despite there being over 30 checkpoints along the Western Equatoria road from Tapare to Tambura County.
He said the attack was a deliberate act aimed at destabilizing the region and terrorizing its people.
“This has raised concerns within the state as to why people are in a ceasefire, yet the division commander is still leading military operations against the SPLA-IO, which is a clear violation of the peace agreement,” he added.
He argued that continued violence against civilians undermines the peace process and threatens the fragile stability of the country.
He appealed to the national government and international partners to act swiftly before more innocent lives are lost.
“We demand the removal and prosecution of Maj. Gen. James Akech Adim and Brigadier General James Nando for the crimes they have committed,” the County Commissioner demanded. “Justice must prevail, and those responsible must be held accountable.”
Mr. Bangada noted that to facilitate the peaceful return of displaced civilians, the government should immediately withdraw SSPDF forces from Kubiri Bou to prevent further atrocities and allow the Wau road to operate normally without unnecessary checkpoints that are hindering the free movement of goods, services, and people.
When contacted for comment, SSPDF Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lual Ruai Koang said he has yet to receive sufficient information regarding the incident and will respond to media claims within the week.