Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has rejected allegations by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) linking the medical organisation to the execution of prisoners of war (POWs) in Walgak, Akobo County, Jonglei State.
In a statement responding to the army’s demand for explanation and accountability, MSF said it does not operate in Walgak and has not worked in the area for several years.
“MSF underlines that we do not work in Walgak, Akobo County, Jonglei State,” the organisation said, adding that it had no staff present and no control over any facilities or activities there at the time of the reported events.
The SSPDF allegations stem from clashes in December 2025 and January 2026, when SPLA-IO forces attacked government positions in Waat, Yuai and Pajut across Nyirol, Uror and Duk counties.
During the fighting, several SSPDF servicemen and servicewomen were captured and held as POWs.
According to the army, some of the captured soldiers were taken to Pieri in Uror County for medical care.
However, following the launch of “Operation Enduring Peace” and the recapture of several bases, SSPDF said its forces made a disturbing discovery in Walgak.
“SSPDF command was utterly shocked and dismayed at the discovery of thirteen corpses of former POWs executed in MSF’s container in Walgak,” SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said in a letter dated 7 February 2026.
The military said four POWs survived and rejoined SSPDF, while ten others including four servicewomen — remain in captivity with retreating SPLA-IO forces.
The army demanded that MSF explain “the exact circumstances under which our personnel were executed in their container.”
MSF firmly denied the claim, saying it neither owned nor operated the facility cited by the military.
The organisation expressed sympathy for the victims, stating, “MSF deeply regrets every loss of life and extends our heartfelt condolences to all those affected.”
Despite the sharp exchange, MSF said it remains open to engagement with authorities.
“We remain committed to engaging with the relevant authorities to address this issue in a comprehensive and transparent way,” the statement said.
The dispute has intensified tensions between humanitarian agencies and security institutions in South Sudan, as calls grow for an independent investigation to establish the facts surrounding the deaths of the POWs.
