The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) announced on March 11, 2026, that government troops have successfully recaptured Akobo town in Jonglei State from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO), describing it as the loss of the opposition’s last major stronghold in the Lou Nuer areas.

SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang told reporters in Juba that forces entered Akobo on March 10 after clashes in nearby areas of Duachan and Doathil.

“On the 10th, our gallant forces recaptured Akobo town without resistance from the rebels,” Koang stated. He added: “There is no other major border town apart from Akobo in Jonglei left for SPLA-IO. So, we have reduced them and they are on the run.”

The town, near the Ethiopian border and under SPLA-IO control since the 2013 civil war began, was found largely deserted upon entry. The market had been looted, and the hospital ransacked.

Civilians, UN agencies, and humanitarian organizations had evacuated earlier following an SSPDF ultimatum issued on March 6, which ordered them to vacate within 72 hours ahead of planned operations.

Koang reported SSPDF losses of 13 soldiers killed and 20 wounded, while claiming government forces “neutralized about 50 fighters from SPLA-IO.”

He denied targeting civilians, insisting operations focused on armed opposition elements.

The chief of defense forces requested that UN agencies, international and local organizations resume humanitarian operations “at the earliest time possible,” and urged civilians to return home, stating: “Akobo is safe and the surrounding areas are safe.”

The recapture follows intensified fighting in Jonglei since late December 2025, with SSPDF previously seizing positions in Nyirol and Uror counties.

Akobo had been the last significant SPLA-IO-held town in the region.

James Kueth Makuach, a former commissioner, was reinstated to the role by the government.

Several SPLA-IO officials in Akobo could not be reached for comment on the SSPDF claims.

Earlier reports from March 10 indicated competing narratives, with SPLA-IO sources asserting they repelled government advances and pushed troops back to Wech-Deng after a brief incursion.

The development heightens concerns over the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement amid stalled implementation, ongoing trials of opposition figures, and international warnings of potential war crimes and humanitarian crises in Jonglei.

Thousands had fled Akobo into Ethiopia prior to the clashes, leaving the area vulnerable to further displacement if fighting continues.