Fangak Hospital Bombing: A Tragic Day for Civilians

The Devastating Airstrike on Old Fangak

On a tragic Saturday morning, the peaceful town of Old Fangak in Jonglei State was rocked by a merciless airstrike that claimed the lives of at least four innocent civilians, including a nine-month-old child. The aftermath left 25 others wounded, some critically, in a senseless act of violence that has shocked the community.

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Commissioner Blames SSPDF for the Attack

Fangak County Commissioner, Biel Butros Biel, pointed fingers at the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) for the brutal attack. He reported that two military gunships, a drone, and a fixed-wing aircraft descended upon the town in the early hours of the morning, targeting the heart of Old Fangak, a place known for sheltering displaced civilians with no military presence.

• At least four civilians, including a young woman, two men, and a nine-month-old child, lost their lives in the bombing.
• 25 civilians were wounded, with some in critical condition and in desperate need of medical care.
• The only hospital in Old Fangak, run by Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), was also hit in the attack, leaving the area without essential medical facilities.

International Outcry and Urgent Humanitarian Assistance Needed

Commissioner Biel condemned the assault, emphasizing that Old Fangak had no ties to any military activities, making the attack on innocent civilians even more senseless. He called for urgent humanitarian assistance and international attention to prevent further suffering among the civilian population.

• The pharmacy of the MSF hospital was destroyed in the bombing, leaving critically wounded individuals without access to necessary medication.
• Commissioner Biel stressed the need for immediate support to save lives and alleviate the suffering of those affected by the tragedy.

SSPDF Warns of Targeting Fangak and Leer Counties

The attack on Old Fangak followed a warning issued by SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang the day before, indicating that Fangak and nearby Leer County were on the radar for military action. The spokesperson accused armed groups, including the SPLM-IO and the White Army, of hijacking boats in the region, leading to escalating tensions.

• Maj. Gen. Lul’s statement hinted at the possibility of further military engagements in the area, raising concerns for the safety of civilians.
• Commissioner Biel’s plea for international attention and humanitarian aid becomes even more urgent in the face of potential future conflicts.

Conclusion: Advocating for Peace and Protection of Civilians

The bombing of Fangak Hospital and the surrounding civilian areas serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of conflict on innocent lives. As the international community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, urgent action is needed to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians in conflict zones like Old Fangak.

Commissioner Biel’s call for humanitarian assistance and condemnation of the attack underscore the importance of protecting civilians and upholding the principles of human rights in times of conflict. It is imperative that all parties involved prioritize peace and the safety of non-combatant populations to prevent further tragedies like the one witnessed in Old Fangak.