The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has expressed regret over the killing of civilians in Ayod County, Jonglei State, and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.

In a statement released late Sunday, the SSPDF acknowledged that its forces were involved in an operation in Ayod that resulted in civilian casualties. The military described the incident as “unfortunate” and said it occurred during a pursuit of armed elements suspected of banditry and cattle raiding.

“We regret the loss of innocent civilian lives during the operation in Ayod,” the SSPDF statement read.

“The command has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and those found culpable will face the full force of military law.”

The SSPDF did not provide specific casualty figures or names of victims but confirmed that a board of inquiry has been established to determine the exact sequence of events and identify any breaches of rules of engagement or international humanitarian law.

Local sources and community leaders in Ayod have reported multiple civilian deaths, including women and children, during clashes between SSPDF troops and armed youth groups in recent days.

Residents say the violence escalated after security forces conducted cordon-and-search operations targeting cattle raiders.

The statement comes amid growing public anger in Jonglei State over repeated incidents of civilian harm during military operations.

Community leaders have called for accountability, compensation for affected families, and an end to what they describe as excessive use of force.

The SSPDF emphasised its commitment to protecting civilians and said it is working with local authorities and traditional leaders to restore calm in Ayod.

“We remain dedicated to safeguarding the lives and property of all South Sudanese and will not tolerate any acts that harm innocent citizens,” the statement added.

No independent verification of casualty numbers or the precise circumstances has been possible due to restricted access to the area.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and humanitarian agencies have previously raised concerns about civilian protection during security operations in Jonglei and other conflict-affected regions.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in distinguishing between combatants and civilians in remote areas plagued by inter-communal violence, cattle raiding, and armed youth groups.