SSPDF Commander and UN Crew Member Killed in Nasir Amid Clashes
A SSPDF commander and a UN crew member were killed during a failed evacuation in Nasir County, South Sudan, amid ongoing clashes with the White Army. The incident highlights the strained relationships between the SSPDF, SPLM-IO, and local armed groups. The UN has condemned the attack, describing it as a potential war crime and calls for accountability and dialogue to prevent further violence as the country prepares for elections in December 2026.
A commander of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and a United Nations crew member were tragically killed in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, following an attack on a UN helicopter during an evacuation operation. This incident occurred on a Friday morning as the helicopter was deployed to rescue SSPDF soldiers, including Gen. Majur Dak, who had found themselves entrapped in the area due to violent clashes involving the SSPDF and a local group known as the White Army.
The White Army, mainly comprised of Nuer youth, had previously taken control of Nasir, including its military barracks, complicating the ongoing security situation. The SSPDF has accused the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) of inciting the violence, further exacerbating tensions between the factions. In response to the allegations, multiple SPLM-IO officials were reportedly arrested in Juba, making the stabilization efforts even more complicated.
Ter Chuol Gatkuoth, a commander of the White Army, verified the failure of the evacuation attempt. He disclosed that Gen. Majur was shot during the operation but did not elaborate further on the situation. Meanwhile, Puok Both Baluang, spokesperson for First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, corroborated the deaths of both the SSPDF commander and the UN crew member. He detailed the events leading to the violence, noting that soldiers mistakenly perceived a threat during the evacuation, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
Following the incident, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) confirmed that their helicopter had indeed come under fire, leading to the death of one crew member and injuring two others. UNMISS stated that the evacuation had been requested by all involved parties, aiming to mitigate further violence and improve political stability in the region. The mission condemned the attack on its personnel as “utterly abhorrent” and indicative of potential war crimes.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, expressed deep sorrow regarding the fatalities and called for thorough investigations to hold accountable those responsible. He emphasized the necessity for all factions to cease hostilities and urged South Sudanese leaders to actively participate in dialogue to resolve the underlying tensions. This incident highlights the fragile security climate in South Sudan, especially as the nation approaches its first post-independence elections set for December 2026, amidst lingering political unease despite previous peace agreements.
The recent fatalities of an SSPDF commander and a UN crew member in Nasir underscore the precarious security situation in South Sudan. Accusations against the SPLM-IO have intensified tensions, complicating peace efforts. The UN has denounced the attack on its personnel and called for accountability. As South Sudan prepares for upcoming elections, resolving conflicts through dialogue remains paramount for stability and peace in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
