SSPDF declares Jonglei offensive, vows to protect civilians

JUBA – The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has declared the commencement of “Operation Enduring Peace”, a military offensive it says aimed at quelling rebellions amid tensions with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLM-IO) in the northern part of Jonglei State.

In a video statement shared with Sudans Post on Tuesday, SSPDF Media Director Col. Garang Ateny Alier confirmed that government forces have been deployed to northern Jonglei to restore security, repel armed attacks, and stabilise areas affected by recent clashes.

“I send a message to all civilians in northern Jonglei State: you can sleep and rest. Your soldiers are here to protect you and your belongings,” Garang said, declaring that military operations have officially begun under the new campaign.

He reaffirmed the army’s commitment to safeguarding civilians and ensuring humanitarian access to affected communities, describing the intervention as a necessary response to growing insecurity.

“You have seen and heard that the operations have begun. When operations begin, we are with the citizens. Our people are suffering, and we, as the army of the South Sudan People’s Defence Force, shall protect our civilians and their properties,” he stated.

Garang warned armed elements linked to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) and allied militias, including the White Army, against targeting non-combatants. He stressed that attacks on civilians violate national and international law and will not be tolerated.

“Our problem is with the SPLA-IO and their militias. These are the forces causing instability in the south of Sudan,” he said.

In a direct appeal to residents living in areas under SPLA-IO influence, Garang urged civilians to evacuate immediately to SSPDF-controlled locations to avoid being caught in crossfire as the military campaign advances.

“We tell our civilians to take their belongings and come to the military bases of the SSPDF so that they can be protected. The opposition does not protect you,” he said.

He further called on armed civilians not affiliated with SPLA-IO or the White Army to voluntarily surrender their weapons at the nearest SSPDF garrison to prevent unnecessary bloodshed.

“If you are not part of the IO or the White Army and you have a weapon, surrender it to the SSPDF to prevent injuries, fighting and death,” he urged.

Garang also issued a warning to international and regional organisations operating in opposition-held areas, advising them to relocate to SSPDF-controlled zones for their safety.