By Manas James Okony
The security situation in Pigi County, in Jonglei State, remains highly volatile following clashes that occurred on Saturday.
The entire county is currently deserted by civilians, who have fled in fear of renewed violence.
These clashes involved the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and a combined force of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA-IO) and the White Army militia. The fighting erupted just days after local authorities had warned of an imminent attack, highlighting the fragility of the security situation in the area.
Suleiman Deng, the county commissioner, reported to No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper that the attack on Saturday was ultimately repelled, but he expressed concerns about the potential for further escalation as the retreating opposition forces regroup.
“The county headquarters of Canal came under attack by SPLA-IO forces on Saturday at 5 am. Our SSPDF forces repelled the attackers, and Canal is now under our full control,” Deng stated.
He confirmed that two servicemen from the SSPDF lost their lives, and three others sustained injuries during the clash. On the opposing side, the casualties included 27 dead, 10 injured, and two captured as prisoners of war (POWs).
Commissioner Deng noted that the captured POWs and the injured SPLA-IO soldiers have been transported to Malakal Town for medical treatment.
Following the clashes, there have been no further attacks reported; however, the security situation remains tense. “The defeated attacking force has retreated to the areas of Atar, Diel, Khorwai, and Mat, where they are now regrouping for another possible attack,” Deng indicated.
The humanitarian crisis is worsening due to the ongoing violence. Commissioner Deng highlighted the dire conditions faced by displaced civilians.
“My civilians in the displacement locations are in a critical humanitarian situation. They have been forced to flee without food or clothes. We appeal to aid agencies to come to their assistance,” he urged.
In a similar vein, James Basha Tiwa, the Upper Nile State Information Minister, expressed grave concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian situation for those displaced. He warned that if urgent aid and support do not arrive, the already dire circumstances would worsen significantly.
As the conflict continues to ravage parts of South Sudan, the international community is urged to pay attention to the plight of the civilians caught in the crossfire, as many face the harsh realities of displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to basic services