Jonglei Aerial Bombardment: Bol Deng Bol Demands Justice for Civilian Losses

Jonglei aerial bombardment in Old Fangak County has sparked national outrage after an early morning airstrike by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) killed at least four civilians—including a nine-month-old child—and left 25 others wounded. The strike struck deep into the heart of a town that shelters thousands of displaced civilians.

Devastating Attack on Displaced Communities

The deadly assault began at approximately 4:00 AM on Saturday morning, involving two military gunships, a fixed-wing aircraft, and a drone. Witnesses describe terrifying scenes as bombs and strafing runs tore through community shelters along the riverbank. Many of the victims had fled earlier violence in other parts of Jonglei State, seeking safety in Old Fangak.

Activist Bol Deng Bol Condemns Strike

Bol Deng Bol, Executive Director of Intrepid South Sudan, issued a powerful condemnation shortly after news of the bombing broke. “We humbly extend our condolences to the grieving families and relatives, and we wish a quick recovery to the injured. It is unacceptable that the SSPDF continues to take civilian lives and destroy property with impunity,” he said.

In a public statement released on the same day, Bol reiterated: “We strongly condemn this attack and call upon IGAD and the African Union to act swiftly to create an environment conducive to a peaceful settlement of conflict within the unity government.”

Violation of National and International Law

Bol Deng Bol emphasized that South Sudan must uphold the laws enshrined in its own Transitional Constitution. “South Sudan is a country of laws and must uphold international human rights, including the right to life and health,” he said. Legal experts note that attacks on civilians could constitute war crimes under international humanitarian law.

SSPDF’s Justification Met With Skepticism

Following the bombing, the SSPDF issued a statement claiming that the strike targeted armed factions linked to the SPLM-IO and the White Army, who were allegedly involved in hijacking humanitarian aid shipments. However, local leaders and eyewitnesses insist that no warning was given and that civilian areas were hit indiscriminately.

Community Grief and Political Fallout

Among the dead was a nine-month-old infant, whose death has come to symbolize the human cost of unchecked military aggression. A local youth leader, speaking anonymously for safety reasons, said: “Every drop of blood calls for justice. If the government cannot protect its people, who will?”

The attack has further eroded trust in the unity government, with critics accusing the administration of failing to restrain military operations that have disproportionately affected civilians.

Urgent Calls for International Oversight

Human rights organizations are urging the United Nations, IGAD, and the African Union to open an independent investigation. Analysts warn that without transparency and accountability, the cycle of reprisal and violence will only deepen South Sudan’s fragile peace process.

“This is not just about Old Fangak,” said one humanitarian worker on the ground. “This is about setting a precedent that civilian life is sacred, even in war.”

The Road Ahead

As tensions remain high in Jonglei, community elders and church leaders are calling for urgent dialogue and restraint. The people of Old Fangak, already displaced once, now face renewed fears of evacuation and insecurity.

South Sudan Online will continue to follow this developing story, providing updates and insights on the broader implications for peace, governance, and civilian protection across the country.

The Devastating Airstrike on Old Fangak

On a tragic Saturday morning, the peaceful town of Old Fangak in Jonglei State suffered a brutal airstrike that killed at least four civilians and wounded 25 others. Among the dead was a nine-month-old child, a young woman, and two men. The attack has left the community devastated and without access to essential medical care.

Commissioner Accuses SSPDF of Targeting Civilians

According to Fangak County Commissioner Biel Butros Biel, the attack was carried out by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). He said the assault involved two military gunships, a drone, and a fixed-wing aircraft that bombed central Old Fangak, a known haven for displaced civilians and reportedly free of military activity.

• 4 civilians killed, including a baby
• 25 wounded, many in critical condition
• MSF-run hospital hit, pharmacy destroyed

Medical Facility Damaged: MSF Hospital Bombed

The only hospital in the town, operated by Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), was hit during the airstrike. The destruction of the pharmacy and critical infrastructure has left the wounded with no access to antibiotics, pain relief, or emergency care.

“Old Fangak has no military base, no weapons, no soldiers. Only families, the elderly, and children. This was a civilian massacre.”
— Commissioner Biel Butros Biel

Urgent Call for Humanitarian Assistance

Commissioner Biel has called on the international community to urgently intervene with humanitarian aid. He warned that the lack of medical services could lead to a greater death toll, and appealed for emergency supplies, trauma care, and medical evacuations.

Local NGOs, religious leaders, and civil society groups have joined the call, emphasizing that Old Fangak has become a symbol of the growing humanitarian crisis in South Sudan’s conflict zones.

SSPDF Statements and Escalating Tensions

The bombing came just one day after SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang announced that Fangak and Leer Counties were under military consideration. He accused rebel elements — including the SPLM-IO and White Army militias — of hijacking government boats and threatening national security.

This preemptive warning has now taken on deadly significance, as fears of a broader offensive intensify among residents and aid workers in the region.

Fangak’s Civilian Population in Crisis

Fangak has long been a refuge for internally displaced persons (IDPs) from surrounding conflicts. With no functioning roads and limited access to air transport, the destruction of the hospital leaves the town completely exposed to health emergencies. Aid workers warn that without immediate relief, the wounded could succumb to preventable injuries.

International Outcry Building

Global human rights observers and international NGOs have begun issuing statements condemning the attack and demanding accountability. The bombing of a medical facility constitutes a potential war crime under international humanitarian law, especially when no military targets are present nearby.

Stop the War on Civilians

The tragedy in Old Fangak is a grim reminder of the civilian cost of military escalation in South Sudan. The bombing of a hospital, the killing of a baby, and the injury of dozens of innocent people demand swift action from the international community, humanitarian actors, and South Sudan’s leadership.

Commissioner Biel’s plea stands as a powerful reminder: peace is not just the absence of war — it is the presence of safety, dignity, and respect for human life. As Fangak mourns its dead, the world must not look away.

A Historic Groundbreaking Ceremony

In a major move to expand public infrastructure in Jonglei State, Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok laid the foundation stones for the General Salva Kiir Mayardit Women Hospital and the William Nyuon Bany Secondary School in Ayod County. The ceremony drew regional leaders, lawmakers, youth, and traditional chiefs — all gathered in a show of unity and optimism for a brighter future.

Addressing Critical Needs in Health and Education

The two projects aim to fill longstanding gaps in health care and education. The women’s hospital is expected to offer maternal care, emergency obstetrics, pediatric services, and health outreach programs. The secondary school will offer formal education to hundreds of young people in Ayod and surrounding villages who currently face limited options for schooling.

“We are laying the foundation for generations to come. Education and health are the bedrock of peace, dignity, and sustainable development.”
— Governor Riek Gai Kok

Presidential Generosity — A Gift to the People

According to state officials, the projects are donations from President Salva Kiir, fulfilling a promise to bring real services to underserved areas. Governor Kok praised the President for supporting grassroots development and stated the projects were a testament to SPLM’s policy of “taking the town to the village.”

He added, “These are not just structures — they are lifelines.”

Community Unity and the Call for Peace

Mary Nyaulang, Chairperson of the Jonglei State Parliamentary Caucus, used the occasion to advocate for peace. She urged Ayod communities to work together, noting that sustainable development depends on stability and reconciliation.

“Let peace prevail in Ayod. Only through peace can we protect our children, welcome new life in hospitals, and send our girls and boys to school without fear.”
— Mary Nyaulang

Local religious leaders echoed this call. “God blesses those who work for peace. This project is a gift, and peace is the ground where it must grow,” said Pastor James Gatwech.

The SPLM Vision — Town to the Village

The projects align with SPLM’s long-standing commitment to decentralized development. For decades, rural counties like Ayod have struggled with a lack of infrastructure. The party’s strategy to build state capacity from the ground up has gained traction in recent years, and these projects are among the first visible results.

“We are bringing justice to remote communities — not just through courts but through clinics and classrooms,” said one state official in attendance.

Reactions from the People of Ayod

The mood in Ayod was celebratory. Market women danced, youth groups sang liberation songs, and local elders blessed the land before the first shovel struck the soil. For many, this was the first time they had seen a governor visit their community for development — not security.

“We have waited for this for years,” said midwife Nyajuma Dak. “Now, mothers will no longer have to travel for days just to give birth safely.”

Parents like Thon Lual welcomed the school with open arms. “Our children deserve a future,” he said. “This school is our hope.”

Challenges Ahead

Despite the excitement, officials acknowledged logistical hurdles, including funding, staffing, and security. However, the governor’s office promised transparency and accountability throughout the construction process.

State engineers and contractors have been assigned, and construction is expected to begin in the next few weeks. Civil society organizations pledged to monitor progress and report on delays or irregularities.

Legacy and National Symbolism

These developments are not only vital for Ayod but are symbolic of a new chapter for South Sudan — one that prioritizes people over politics. They represent a shift in national priorities from war to welfare, from promises to action.

Governor Riek Gai Kok stated his hope that Ayod would become a model county, showing what is possible when peace and leadership work hand in hand.

From Vision to Reality

The laying of foundation stones for the Salva Kiir Mayardit Women Hospital and William Nyuon Bany Secondary School marks a new era in Ayod’s journey. If completed and sustained, these facilities will become legacies — not only of a president and a governor, but of a people choosing peace, progress, and purpose.