The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has ordered the immediate evacuation of civilians from areas under the control of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) in parts of Jonglei State, citing imminent military operations aimed at restoring security.
In a press release issued on January 25, 2026, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang announced that the directive comes ahead of the planned launch of “Operation Enduring Peace”, a security operation targeting SPLA-IO positions in Nyirol, Uror and Akobo counties.
According to the statement, all civilians residing in the affected areas are urged to relocate without delay to government-controlled locations to avoid potential harm during the operation.
The SSPDF said the evacuation order is intended as a precautionary measure to protect civilian lives.
The army further directed armed civilians who are not willing to engage in hostilities against government forces to voluntarily surrender their weapons to the nearest SSPDF garrison.
It also called on youths not affiliated with the White Army militia to move their families and livestock to safer areas under government control.
The SSPDF warned that armed individuals found loitering near SPLA-IO barracks, assembly points or rally grounds will be treated as combatants and considered legitimate military targets once operations begin.
In addition, the military issued a 48-hour notice to non-governmental organizations and United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) personnel operating in the three counties, instructing them to vacate the areas for their safety.
Maj. Gen. Koang said the measures are aimed at minimizing civilian casualties and ensuring the smooth execution of the operation, while placing responsibility on all parties to distinguish themselves clearly from combatants.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions and recurring clashes in Jonglei State, a region that has experienced cycles of armed conflict involving government forces, opposition groups and local militias.
Operation Enduring Peace, according to the SSPDF, is intended to stabilize the affected counties and restore government authority, though humanitarian agencies have previously raised concerns over the impact of military operations on civilian populations.
