The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) say they regained control of Kediba Town, the administrative headquarters of Mundri East County in Western Equatoria State, following clashes with a joint force of the National Salvation Front (NAS) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) over the weekend.
On 24 September, a combined force of NAS and SPLA-IO fighters attacked and overran the SSPDF base in Kediba, displacing nearly 30,000 civilians.
SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said in a statement that government troops launched a coordinated operation to retake Kediba after it was captured by opposition forces.
“The SSPDF successfully recaptured Kediba after neutralizing resistance from NAS and SPLA-IO elements,” he stated. “Our forces are now in full control of the area, and normalcy has been restored.”
He confirmed that one government soldier was killed, while several opposition fighters were also reported dead during the operation.
Kediba, located about 35 kilometers east of Mundri Town, has witnessed recurring clashes in recent months between government and opposition forces, disrupting the movement of civilians and humanitarian operations.
A resident of Kediba who spoke to Radio Tamazuj on condition of anonymity for security reasons said the sound of heavy gunfire was heard early Sunday morning as civilians fled into nearby bushes.
“We heard heavy shooting, and many people ran away. Later, the firing stopped, and we saw SSPDF vehicles entering Kediba,” the source said, adding that the area remained tense as some residents were still afraid to return home.
Another resident said the town is now relatively calm, but many families are struggling to find food and non-food items after fleeing during the fighting.
Meanwhile, the SPLA-IO condemned the operation in a statement released on 8 October 2025, accusing the SSPDF of carrying out “unprofessional military actions” in Western Equatoria State.
SPLA-IO spokesperson Col. Lam Paul Gabriel alleged that government troops targeted opposition-held areas and civilians “under the pretext of clearing rebels.” He called on the international community to investigate the incident and ensure accountability for violations.
The latest clashes in Kediba highlight renewed tensions in parts of Western Equatoria State, despite continued efforts to implement the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement aimed at ending the country’s long-standing conflict.