UROR, JONGLEI STATE — The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) have announced that their troops recaptured Pathai Payam on Monday evening following what they described as a “brief but decisive” battle with forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition (SPLA-IO).
SSPDF Director of Media and Press, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, said the fighting took place on 27 January 2026 at around 6:00 p.m., resulting in the defeat and retreat of SPLA-IO fighters.
According to the SSPDF, post-battle operations led to the recovery of weapons and ammunition, including rounds for heavy machine guns, PKM light machine guns, and mortar shells. The army also said six bodies of alleged SPLA-IO fighters were found at the scene.
The SSPDF further stated that more than 20 women, girls, and children who had been left behind during the fighting were taken into protective custody in accordance with the force’s Rules of Engagement.
The civilians were later handed over to the Paramount Chief of the area, Mr. Khor Den Chop, and provided with food assistance, including maize flour and cooking oil, before being reunited with their families in surrounding villages.
Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang praised SSPDF troops for what he described as professionalism, discipline, and positive engagement with civilians during the operation.
However, the SPLA-IO has strongly rejected the SSPDF account. In a brief response, SPLA-IO spokesperson Lam Paul dismissed the SSPDF statement as “misinformation,” insisting that the area remains under opposition control.
“Disregard the misinformation from SSPDF. Yuai is still under the full control of the SPLA-IO,” Lam Paul said, without providing further details.
Independent verification of the claims by either side remains difficult due to limited access to the area.
The South Sudan government said renewed fighting in Jonglei and other parts of the country has left more than 200,000 people internally displaced in January alone.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Albino Akol Atak, said most of the displaced fled fighting in Jonglei State and moved into Lakes State and other neighbouring areas.
He says United Nations agencies have pledged 12 million dollars for the humanitarian response, while the government has contributed more than 100 metric tonnes of food.