The dispute emerged after SSPDF announced it had recaptured Walgak during what it described as “Operation Enduring Peace.” According to the army spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, troops found the remains of 13 SSPDF soldiers who opposition forces had previously captured.
“SSPDF command was utterly shocked and dismayed at the discovery of thirteen corpses of former POWs executed in an MSF container in Walgak, Akobo County,” Lul Ruai said, calling for a full explanation and accountability from the medical organisation.
The army’s statement directly linked the discovery to MSF because the container allegedly carried the group’s branding, raising concerns about how it came to be used as a detention or execution site.
However, MSF swiftly distanced itself from the allegations. In a statement, the charity said it does not operate in Walgak and has not worked there for several years.
“MSF underlines that we do not work in Walgak, Akobo County, Jonglei State. We have not worked in this location over the past years and exercised no operational control, supervision, or authority over any facilities or assets in Walgak at the time of the reported events,” the organisation said.
MSF expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and said it remains open to engaging with authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) has rejected SSPDF’s broader accusation that it executed the prisoners. Speaking on behalf of the camp of First Vice President Dr Riek Machar, acting spokesperson Puok Both Baluang said the POWs were alive and treated humanely while in opposition custody.
“We strongly refute the false and irresponsible accusations made by Gen. Lul Ruai Koang,” Puok Both said, arguing that the prisoners had been able to communicate with their families during detention.
In a counter-claim, the opposition accused SSPDF forces of killing the POWs after retaking Walgak and alleged that civilians were also targeted during the assault. SPLA-IO spokesperson Col. Lam Paul Gabriel further claimed that government troops carried out killings and burned homes during the operation.
Adding another layer to the controversy, a man identifying himself as Peter Majak Anyar claimed he survived a separate incident in which 33 captives were allegedly killed, accusing SPLA-IO forces of carrying out executions. The opposition disputes that account.
