BOR — A South Sudanese civil society activist has strongly condemned an alleged aerial bombardment by the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) that reportedly killed at least 26 civilians in Lankien town, Nyirol County of Jonglei State, describing it as a grave violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.
The airstrike, which reportedly occurred on December 29, targeted a civilian area and claimed the lives of 11 children, five men, and 10 women, according to information released by the Chairperson of Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN).
Bol Deng Bol added that at least 30 other civilians were injured, many of whom are said to be in urgent need of medical attention.
The activist expressed deep concern over the continued involvement of civilians in armed confrontations between rival forces in the state. “Civilians are not parties to this conflict and should never be targeted,” the activist said, adding that the loss of innocent lives in Lankien was “both tragic and unacceptable.”
Following the bombardment, residents of Lankien and surrounding areas reportedly fled their homes in fear of further attacks, seeking safety in nearby locations. The displacement has left affected families in dire need of emergency assistance, including medical supplies, food, and essential non-food items.
The Jonglei Civil Society Network conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Jonglei State, while calling on the Government of Jonglei State to urgently assess the situation and provide immediate humanitarian support to those affected. The activist emphasized that timely intervention could prevent further suffering among displaced and injured civilians.
Jonglei State has experienced prolonged insecurity due to ongoing clashes between the SSPDF and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition (SPLA-IO). Deng questioned why civilians continue to bear the brunt of a conflict that armed actors have failed to resolve through peaceful means.
“We demand a clear explanation from the authorities on how such an incident was allowed to happen, and we call for accountability,” the activist stated. “Those responsible for ordering or carrying out attacks on civilians must be held to account in accordance with the law.”
The Jonglei Civil Society Network, an umbrella body representing civil society organizations, community-based organizations, and national non-governmental organizations operating in the state, reiterated its commitment to advocating for human rights, peacebuilding, good governance, and accountability.