The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) launched fresh military attacks on opposition forces of the SPLA-IO in Ayod County, Jonglei State, on Saturday, according to local sources.

The fighting erupted shortly after the arrival of SSPDF reinforcements at the county headquarters last week. Tensions escalated further following remarks attributed to the SSPDF Deputy Chief for Mobilisation and Disarmament, who allegedly instructed troops to burn civilian homes in areas controlled by the SPLA-IO. The remarks drew widespread condemnation locally and internationally, with UN human rights bodies describing them as inciteful speech that could promote ethnic cleansing.

Clashes were reported on the outskirts of Ayod, including in Wau Wau Payam and surrounding areas, as SSPDF forces attempted to retake territory from SPLA-IO fighters. Sources said the attacks were repelled, forcing SSPDF units to retreat towards Ayod town, with some soldiers scattered across multiple locations.

In response, SPLA-IO forces and allied armed youth, commonly referred to as the White Army, reportedly blocked roads leading to the county headquarters. The move was intended to prevent SSPDF reinforcements and rescue units from reaching the area, while isolating SSPDF forces trapped in SPLA-IO-controlled villages.

A local source, speaking to Oz Arab Media on condition of anonymity, said at least five people were killed, including a nine-year-old girl. The violence has forced many residents to flee their homes. The source added that the situation remains extremely tense, with both sides amassing significant military strength, despite reports that SPLA-IO forces are advancing towards Ayod town.

South Sudan, Africa’s youngest nation, continues to grapple with prolonged economic hardship. Years of instability have severely weakened the economy, leading to sharp depreciation of the local currency against the US dollar and compounding the humanitarian crisis facing civilians across the country.