South Sudan clashes kill soldiers, civilians in Kapoeta gold mine
Eastern Equatoria State government confirms clashes and deployed forces to restore order after armed attacks.
Clashes erupted over the weekend in the Nakeke gold mining area of Kapoeta South County, Eastern Equatoria State, resulting in the deaths of soldiers and civilians, with several others wounded. The Eastern Equatoria State Government confirmed the violence and stated that the security situation is gradually normalizing. The government deployed security forces to restore law and order following armed attacks, road ambushes, and criminal activities around the mining area.
Caretaker Minister of Information Akileo Mboya Peter Anyanga said authorities are engaging local communities for a peaceful resolution to the problem. He noted that insecurity along the Kapoeta-Ngauro road, marked by attacks and blockages, is a particular concern. An incident on September 18, 2026, saw two people killed after 12 motorcycle riders were attacked, and a bodyguard was wounded during a visit to Nakeke on October 21. Further violence wounded a Chinese national and a driver, and a vehicle was looted and burned.
The opposition National Salvation Front (NAS) accused government forces of a reprisal attack against Toposa youth, claiming dozens of military casualties and civilian deaths. NAS spokesperson Suba Samuel Manase condemned the use of force and called for an investigation into alleged human rights violations. The government's intervention aimed to restore security and ensure legal mining activities, urging community members to use peaceful dialogue for grievances.
Why it mattersClashes in the Nakeke gold mining area of Kapoeta South County have led to civilian deaths and wounded others, disrupting economic activities and security.