Dozens displaced as SSPDF, rival forces clash in Mundri East

JUBA – Renewed fighting between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and armed opposition groups has displaced dozens of families in Lakamadi Payam, Greater Mundri East County, reviving fear and instability in an area long troubled by conflict.

Lakamadi Payam, a fertile and peaceful area bordering Central Equatoria’s Tali Payam, was once known for its productive farms, fishing, and local trade. But in recent weeks, it has become the center of fresh violence, leaving homes burned and families scattered into the forests.

Local sources told Sudans Post that heavy clashes erupted earlier this month between SSPDF troops and fighters believed to belong to the SPLM-IO and the National Salvation Front (NAS). The fighting forced villagers from Lakamadi, Doso, Kediba, and Wandi payams to flee with only what they could carry.

“People are sleeping in the open, others in church buildings and schools without food or water,” said a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. “Children are hungry, and the elderly are suffering without medicine.”

The conflict, residents say, is not new. Tensions between government and opposition forces have flared repeatedly in Greater Mundri since 2016, disrupting farming, education, and trade.

Several displaced families have sought refuge in Lui Payam of Mundri West County, while others are reportedly moving toward Terekeka and Mvolo counties. The road between Lakamadi and Mundri remains insecure, making humanitarian access extremely difficult.

When contacted by Sudans Post, Mundri East County Commissioner John Henry confirmed the displacement but denied allegations that government forces attacked civilians. He said the SSPDF was deployed to restore calm after clashes with opposition groups.

“The army was not sent to harm people,” Henry explained. “There was fighting between the SSPDF and opposition forces — SPLM-IO and NAS — around September 30. Our forces acted to protect civilians and restore order.”

The Commissioner, however, admitted that the situation remains tense and urged humanitarian agencies to intervene.

“Thousands have been affected, and many need food, medicine, and shelter. We are appealing to partners to come and assist our people,” he said.

Meanwhile, Thomas Aringa Paul, Deputy Chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) in Western Equatoria State, confirmed the displacement but said the exact number of affected people is not yet known.

“Families are scattered in the bush and some have crossed to neighbouring counties,” Aringa told Sudans Post. “The humanitarian situation is alarming, and no organization has reached them yet. Many are suffering without food, water, or shelter.”

Local leaders and residents are appealing to both sides to cease hostilities and establish humanitarian corridors to facilitate the delivery of aid and the safe return of civilians.

“We are tired of running every year,” one elder said. “We want peace to return so that our children can go back to school and we can rebuild our homes.”

The latest clashes underscore the persistent clashes between the government and opposition forces in the state, with civilians bearing the brunt as both groups target them.

In early October, five young men aged 17, 19, and 22 were killed by the SSDF after they ran for a hideout following attacks on their homes by SPLA-IO forces.

In a press statement that followed, Maj. Lul Ruai Koang, the SSPDF Spokesperson, claimed that their forces engaged in conflict with “SPLA-IO soldiers disguised in civilian attire.”