JUBA, South Sudan (AP) — United Nations officials are voicing alarm following the capture of Akobo, a strategically important town in South Sudan’s Jonglei State, by opposition forces who drove out government soldiers.
Clashes erupted over the weekend, and by Monday, Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition spokesman Lam Paul Gabriel confirmed that rebel fighters had successfully taken control of the town, seizing military equipment and weaponry in the process. Government forces, who had controlled Akobo since capturing it in March, retreated from their positions.
Public service minister Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth condemned the assault as “senseless and unjustified,” accusing opposition forces of endangering civilian lives. While Gatkuoth promised that military officials would release additional information about the incident, army representatives declined to provide any statements.
The conflict between South Sudan’s government and rebel groups has intensified since the collapse of a 2018 peace agreement approximately one year ago. Akobo represents a crucial remaining stronghold for opposition forces under the leadership of Riek Machar, the country’s imprisoned vice president.
Military officials had issued evacuation orders for Akobo residents last month in preparation for operations targeting opposition fighters. The directive prompted thousands of people to flee the town, which sits along the border with Ethiopia.
Social media footage revealed opposition fighters positioned at critical locations throughout the town, including the airfield and government buildings, indicating their control over key administrative zones.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan, known as UNMISS, issued a warning Monday about deteriorating humanitarian circumstances and urged all parties to cease fighting.
“We are engaging intensively with all parties at all levels to help prevent further escalation and restore calm,” stated UNMISS spokesperson Priyanka Chowdhury.
UNMISS plans to shut down its Akobo facility as part of budget reductions affecting humanitarian operations.
