January 2, 2026 – Kapoeta East, Eastern Equatoria State
Heavy fighting broke out early Friday morning between forces of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Army‑In Opposition (SPLA‑IO) at Nadapal, a key border checkpoint near Kenya, according to local officials and eyewitnesses.
Nadapal is a vital yet remote crossing point along the main road linking South Sudan to the Kenyan port of Mombasa, making it a critical route for trade and transport.
Gunfire Mistaken for New Year Celebrations
A local chief, who spoke to Radio Tamazuj anonymously for security reasons, said residents first heard gunfire around 5:00 a.m., initially assuming it was related to New Year celebrations.
“We heard gunshots, thinking it was for New Year celebrations. However, it turned out to be clashes with rebels, leading to injuries and fatalities,”
the chief said.
According to the chief, four SSPDF soldiers were killed and one civilian injured. He added that the attackers targeted a weapons depot, which exploded during the clashes.
Control of Nadapal Unclear
The SPLA‑IO issued a statement claiming it had captured Nadapal. Radio Tamazuj could not independently verify the claim.
SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang declined to confirm or deny the situation, offering no further comment.
Kapoeta East County Commissioner Steve Lowezio acknowledged the clashes but refused to provide additional details, saying:
“It is not the right time for me to talk.”
Civilians Flee, Transport Paralyzed
A senior government official, requesting anonymity, said vehicle movement between Kapoeta and Nadapal has been suspended due to the risk of ambushes.
“Movement has been hindered by the attack, which involved heavy weaponry. Most civilians have fled to different villages, while others are in Kapoeta town, hungry and in need of safety,”
the official said.
Civil Society Condemns Violence
Local civil society leader Lokang Augustine Koito condemned the renewed fighting, urging both sides to protect civilians.
“We are exhausted from this ongoing conflict in South Sudan and condemn it in the strongest terms possible,”
Koito said.
Eastern Equatoria State economic advisor German Charles Ojok appealed for peaceful dialogue.
“Should there be issues, they should resolve them through dialogue rather than resort to violence and victimizing our people.”
Part of Wider Escalation
The Nadapal fighting comes amid intensifying clashes across South Sudan, including reports that SPLA‑IO forces captured an SSPDF garrison in Uror County, Jonglei State, earlier on Friday.
South Sudan continues to grapple with instability despite the 2018 peace agreement, which formed a unity government but has struggled with slow implementation and recurrent localized conflict.
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