SSPDF claims capture of Akobo rebel stronghold

JUBA — The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) on Wednesday announced they have captured the rebel stronghold town of Akobo following days of fighting with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO).

Speaking during a security briefing on Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, SSPDF Spokesman, said the operation was part of the second phase of “Operation Enduring Peace.”

“On the 6th of March 2026, I held a conference… where I read a statement ordering enemies, UN agencies, their staff, and the local population to evacuate because we were going to launch offensive operations,” he said.

According to the SSPDF spokesperson, government forces began advancing toward Akobo on March 7 and encountered resistance from SPLA-IO fighters.

“While advancing on Akobo, we were engaged by the rebels at a place called Dwechen. They ambushed us; we defeated them and proceeded,” he said.

He added that another clash occurred on March 8 at Athiel as troops moved toward Weidangnawka.

“Again, we were engaged by SPLA-IO rebels… We also defeated them, we made a breakthrough, and on the same day we were able to capture their base at Wei’dangnawka,” Koang said.

The SSPDF then advanced toward Akobo town and captured it from rebel forces.

“So, I would like to announce to you that on the 10th… our gallant forces captured Akobo town without resistance,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Koang said the fighting resulted into killing of 50 rebel fighters.

He also said government troops seized several military vehicles from SPLA-IO forces.

“We captured a total of seven Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles, among them three pickups mounted with weapons, including a ZU-23 and 12.7,” he added.

He said they lost 13 SSPDF soldiers, and 20 others were wounded.

“On behalf of the Chief of Defense Forces… I would like to proudly announce the re-liberation of the historical border town of Akobo,” he said.

Koang said the former county commissioner, James Kueth Makuei, who was allegedly ousted by SPLA-IO, has now resumed his duties after the recapture of the town.

Following the capture of the town, SSPDF called on humanitarian agencies to resume operations.

“After the successful recapture of Akobo town, the chief of defense forces hereby requests all UN agencies and international and indigenous organizations to resume their normal humanitarian operations at the earliest time possible,” he said.

He also urged civilians who fled the fighting—some of whom crossed into Ethiopia—to return.

“Akobo is safe; the surrounding areas are safe. You have no reason to stay in a foreign land. You are urged by the leadership of this army to come back to your respective homes,” he said.