Fresh clashes erupt in Nasir, displacing thousands

MALAKAL – Renewed fighting between civilians and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has rocked Nasir, Upper Nile State, on Wednesday displacing at least 2,900 residents, according to local authorities.

The eruption of violence on Wednesday sent shockwaves through the town, with residents reporting heavy gunfire and explosions.

“The shooting started out of nowhere in the afternoon,” said Mary Ajok, a resident who fled to a neighboring village. “We were terrified and didn’t know where to run.”

Details surrounding the cause of the clashes remain unclear, but Nasir County Commissioner Duol Kun Thien linked them to a prior incident.

“There are reports that this violence may be connected to the accidental shooting of an SSPDF soldier by a civilian in late June,” Commissioner Thien told Sudans Post. “The soldier was receiving treatment in Juba but passed away on Wednesday. We are still investigating the exact sequence of events.”

The immediate consequence of the clashes, however, is the displacement of thousands of civilians. “The gunfire forced many families to flee their homes in search of safety,” explained Nyadak Chol, a community leader in Nasir. “Many have sought refuge in surrounding villages, straining already limited resources.”

Commissioner Thien expressed concern about the growing humanitarian crisis.

“While the exact number is being verified, our initial estimates suggest over 2,900 people have been displaced,” he said.

“These are mainly women and children who urgently need shelter, food, and medical attention. We are appealing to humanitarian organizations to step up their assistance and prevent a further escalation of the crisis,” he added.

Local authorities are working to restore calm and prevent further violence. “We are urging all parties involved to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue,” Commissioner Thien emphasized. “The safety and well-being of our citizens must be our top priority.”