BOR – The number of civilians killed in an airstrike carried out by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) in Nyirol County of South Sudan’s Jonglei State has risen to at least 26, more than double the initial figure.
Preliminary reports on Monday indicated that about 10 civilians, including children, had been killed in the bombardment. However, further assessments now show that the death toll is significantly higher.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN) said the airstrike targeted a civilian location in Lankien, an area currently controlled by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO).
“This operation targeted a civilian location, reportedly killing 26 civilians — including 11 children, 10 women and five men — while 30 others were injured,” the statement said.
JCSN, a coalition of civil society organisations operating in Jonglei State, strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep concern over the rising number of civilian casualties.
“We learned about the unfortunate aerial bombardment carried out yesterday in Lankien, Nyirol County of Jonglei State, allegedly by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF),” the group said.
The organisation extended its condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Jonglei State, describing the incident as a grave violation of civilian protection.
According to the statement, fear of further airstrikes has forced many residents to flee Lankien and surrounding areas, leaving them in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
“Civilians have deserted nearby areas in fear of continued bombardments. They are in urgent need of medical supplies, food and non-food assistance,” JCSN said.
The group called on the Jonglei State government to conduct an emergency assessment and immediately provide assistance to those affected.
While acknowledging the ongoing conflict between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO in parts of Jonglei State, JCSN urged authorities to prioritize the protection of civilians.
It also called for the evacuation and resettlement of civilians trapped in active conflict zones and demanded accountability for the airstrike.
“We demand an explanation for this unfortunate development from the Government of Jonglei State and call for accountability,” the statement concluded.
