The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) have called for accountability after claiming that their captured soldiers were executed while under the care of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
On Saturday, government forces released a statement indicating that the alleged event occurred after a series of assaults conducted by SPLA-IO forces against SSPDF during December 2025 and January 2026, resulting in the capture of several government soldiers, including female service members.
“In light of aforementioned unfortunate developments, SSPDF command hereby demand for full explanation and accountability from MSF on the exact circumstances under which own personnel were executed in their container,” reads the statement released by the SSPDF Spokesperson Lul Ruai Koang.
The South Sudan government forces reported that these assaults led to the loss of military bases in Waat, Yuai, and Pajut located in the Nyirol, Uror, and Duk counties respectively, resulting in a significant number of military personnel being taken as prisoners of war.
Some of those detained were subsequently moved to Pieri in Uror County for medical care, in accordance with the humanitarian duties of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
Nevertheless, after the initiation of “Operation Enduring Peace,” which allowed government forces to regain lost territories, SSPDF commanders expressed their dismay upon finding the remains of 13 former prisoners of war inside an MSF container in Walgak, Akobo County.
The military stated that four of the captured soldiers managed to survive and subsequently rejoined the armed forces. In contrast, ten others, including four female soldiers, remained in custody as SPLA-IO forces withdrew. MSF has yet to respond to the demands from South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
On February 5, 2026, the SPLA-IO spokesperson Lam Paul Gabriel accused SSPDF of killing civilians after recapturing Walgak town in Akobo County including its own soldiers who were captured by SPLA-IO forces.
SPLA-IO allied with suspended First Vice President Riek Machar who is currently facing trials for charges related to the March 2025 Nasir incident along with other SPLA-IO officials.
Anonymous sources in Akobo and Ayod counties indicated that the prisoners of war were killed by SPLA-IO forces before SSPDF attacked the area however, this outlet could not independently verify these claims.
The conflict in the northern part of Jonglei State has displaced more than 230,000 civilians to the neighbouring counties where congestion has led to a disease outbreak with more than 930 cholera cases reported in Duk County.
Authorities in counties hosting IDPs such as Twic East and Counties report poor living conditions including a lack of food, clean water, shelter and medical care.
While WFP and MSF have reported blocked humanitarian access in SSPLA-IO-controlled areas, several regional and international organisations have called for a ceasefire and the provision of humanitarian assistance to the displaced persons.
