Jonglei State condemns alleged looting, destruction by SPLM/A-IO in Akobo

BOR – The government of Jonglei State has condemned what it described as widespread looting and destruction allegedly carried out by elements of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) in Akobo County.

In a statement issued on 10 March, the state Ministry of Information and Communication said it was “deeply distressed” by reports that public facilities, private property and humanitarian assets were destroyed during an incident that reportedly occurred on Monday, March 9.

The statement, signed by Nyamar Lony Thichot, said several key facilities were affected in the alleged attacks, including Akobo Hospital, private homes, the local market, telecommunications network towers, and property belonging to humanitarian organisations operating in the county.

“The Government of Jonglei State condemns in the strongest terms possible these criminal and unlawful acts of looting and destruction of private, government and humanitarian property carried out by SPLM/A-IO elements that undermine the safety and dignity of civilians in Akobo County,” the statement said.

According to the state government, the reported destruction has further worsened conditions for civilians already struggling with insecurity and displacement in the area. Authorities warned that such incidents not only threaten the safety of local communities but also disrupt critical services provided by humanitarian organisations.

Officials said damage to infrastructure such as telecommunications towers and medical facilities could have serious consequences for communities that rely heavily on these services for communication, healthcare and emergency support.

The government also called on the international community and humanitarian partners to condemn what it described as ongoing acts of looting and destruction attributed to SPLM/A-IO forces in different parts of Jonglei State.

Nyamar said similar incidents had allegedly been reported in other counties, including Uror and Nyirol, raising concerns about the impact on humanitarian operations and the safety of civilians in the region.

“The Government of Jonglei State stands in solidarity with the people who lost their property,” the statement added, noting that authorities remain concerned about the repeated targeting of civilian infrastructure and humanitarian assets.

The allegations come at a time of rising tensions and insecurity in parts of Jonglei State, where clashes and military activity have heightened fears among residents and aid agencies. Communities in several counties have already faced waves of displacement and disruptions to humanitarian assistance due to the fragile security situation.

State authorities said they remain committed to protecting civilians and called for respect for humanitarian operations and civilian property amid the ongoing tensions in the region.