The Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition (SPLA-IO) has strongly denied accusations by Trioka linking its leadership to the alleged ordering of humanitarian organizations to surrender their vehicles in northern Jonglei State, describing the claims as misleading and inconsistent with its policy on civilian and humanitarian protection.
In a statement issued by SPLA-IO Spokesperson Col. Lam Paul Gabriel, the movement clarified that the recent seizure of three NGO vehicles in Walgak, Akobo County, was the result of an error in communication exploited by armed individuals who forged a document falsely bearing the name of Sector 3 Commander, Maj. Gen. John Luk.
The SPLA-IO emphasized that no official order was issued by its command structure authorizing the confiscation of humanitarian assets.
According to the statement, the Acting Chief of General Staffs of the SPLA-IO, Lt. Gen. Peter Thok Chuol Luak, has informed all concerned and affected parties that the incident is regrettable and does not reflect the values or operational directives of the movement.
He further assured that immediate measures are being taken to rectify the situation, including the recovery and return of the seized vehicles, and that any individuals found responsible will be held fully accountable.
The denial comes in the wake of a joint statement issued on January 7, 2026, by the embassies of Canada, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States in Juba.
The diplomatic missions condemned what they described as a reported order attributed to Maj. Gen. John Luk Bayak directing humanitarian organizations to surrender their vehicles, calling it a flagrant violation of international humanitarian principles and a serious threat to the safety of aid workers.
In response, the SPLA-IO reiterated that it takes civilian protection seriously, including the safety and operational freedom of NGOs and humanitarian staff working in areas under its control.
The movement stressed that any actions undermining humanitarian operations are contrary to its standing commitments and undermine the delivery of life-saving assistance to vulnerable communities.
The SPLA-IO further noted that it has repeatedly communicated its policy of zero tolerance toward interference with humanitarian activities and warned that individuals acting outside the chain of command or abusing the name of senior officers will face disciplinary and legal consequences.
As investigations continue, the SPLA-IO called on humanitarian partners and diplomatic missions to engage directly with its leadership to verify information and support constructive dialogue aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
The movement reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation with humanitarian actors and international partners in ensuring that aid reaches civilians in need without obstruction or intimidation.
