Seven killed, four wounded by suspected SPLA-IO forces in Yirol East

RUMBEK – At least seven people, including five elderly individuals, a woman, and a young girl, were killed in an early morning attack on Wednesday, allegedly carried out in Yirol East County of South Sudan’s Lakes State by armed men believed to be linked to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) from Panyijar County, Unity State.

According to a statement issued by the Press Unit of Yirol East County, the attackers struck Tit-Lei-Pakoi village in Malek Payam at around 4:00 a.m., leaving four others critically wounded. Local authorities described the incident as a “cold-blooded and banditry act” against innocent civilians.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Yirol East County, we strongly condemn this cold-blooded and banditry act by the criminals from Panyijar County,” the statement read in part.

The Yirol East County administration accused armed elements from Panyijar of repeatedly launching attacks across the border, blaming the SPLA-IO rebels for the rising insecurity since April this year. Officials say the latest assault is part of a pattern of violence that has disrupted peace and stability in the area.

“Yirol East County has been increasingly experiencing continuous hostility from the SPLA-IO rebels since April this year, more than before. This shows that Panyijar County remains a potential threat to the government of South Sudan in general and to the people of Lakes State in particular,” the statement added.

The county authorities called on the national government and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) to take immediate action to protect civilians and their property.

“We urge the national government, especially the SSPDF, to swiftly respond to this rebellion and protect the lives and properties of our people as enshrined in the Constitution,” they said.

No statement has yet been issued by SPLA-IO or officials from Unity State regarding the allegations.

However, the Yirol East County government reiterated that it considers Panyijar a long-standing rebel stronghold, referencing its role during earlier conflicts dating back to the 1991 SPLA split.

The statement concluded with condolences to the bereaved families and a call for resilience. “We sincerely convey our sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the families of today’s victims in Tit-Lei-Pakoi and urge them to remain strong during this time of sorrow,” it said.