More than 7,000 civilians have been displaced in Negaro County following a violent assault by Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) forces on a South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) barracks.
The attack, which erupted late last week in the county’s administrative center, triggered widespread panic and forced families to flee into surrounding bushes and forests.
The clashes resulted in extensive looting and destruction. Shops were ransacked, houses destroyed, and public facilities, including schools, health centers, and administrative buildings, were vandalized or abandoned.
Local sources say the violence has paralyzed daily life and left communities without access to basic services. Paramount Chief Natale Ngori of Negaro County issued an urgent appeal for humanitarian intervention.
“Our people are suffering in the bushes without food, shelter, or medicine. I am urgently calling on the national government and humanitarian agencies to intervene and provide life-saving food and non-food items to the displaced. These are innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of a conflict they did not choose.” Mr. Ngori said.
Religious leaders have echoed the call for peace and support. Bishop Edward Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio condemned the violence and urged reconciliation:
“In this time of confusion and disaster, I appeal to all people of goodwill, especially Christians, let us stand in solidarity with our suffering brothers and sisters in Nagero,” said Bishop Hiboro.
The attack marks a troubling escalation in tensions between SPLA-IO and SSPDF forces in Western Equatoria, a region already grappling with fragile peace and sporadic violence. Community leaders warn that without swift intervention; the crisis could destabilize neighboring counties and deepen mistrust among local populations.
As the displaced await assistance, the voices of Chief Ngori and Bishop Hiiboro carry a unified plea: restore peace, deliver aid, and protect the dignity of every South Sudanese citizen.
