January 28, 2026
The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) on Wednesday announced that their forces had re-captured Yuai Barracks and Pathai Military Outpost following what they described as successful military operations in Jonglei State.
In a statement released for immediate distribution, SSPDF leadership, under the overall command of Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Paul Nang Majok PhD, said Yuai Barracks was re-liberated at 3:30 PM on January 28, while Pathai Military Outpost was retaken earlier at 6:00 PM on January 27.
The statement, signed by SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, congratulated government forces for what it termed “stunning victories” over SPLA-IO fighters and praised troops for rapidly regaining control of what the army described as previously lost bases.
The SSPDF also called on civilians who had fled Yuai, Pathai, and surrounding villages to return to their homes, assuring the public that the areas were back under government control. The army said further updates would be provided regarding personnel losses and equipment damage inflicted on retreating enemy forces.
However, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) has strongly rejected the SSPDF claims.
In a brief counter-statement, SPLA-IO spokesperson Lam Paul Gabriel dismissed the government announcement as misinformation, insisting that Yuai remains under the full control of SPLA-IO forces.
“Disregard the misinformation from SSPDF. Yuai is still under the full control of the SPLA-IO,” Lam Paul Gabriel said in a statement, adding, “Viva.”
The conflicting claims highlight the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the security situation in Jonglei State, where control of strategic locations has frequently shifted amid continued fighting between rival forces.
As of publication, independent verification of control over Yuai and Pathai was not immediately available. Local residents and humanitarian actors have yet to publicly confirm which side currently holds the areas.
Observers warn that such conflicting statements often reflect the fluid and volatile nature of the conflict, underscoring the risks faced by civilians caught between warring parties.
Nile Gazette
