A Sudanese refugee was killed and a South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldier wounded in an early morning armed attack on Makpandu Refugee Camp in Western Equatoria State on Wednesday.

The incident also saw parts of the SSPDF and wildlife garrisons set ablaze, several shops looted, houses burned, and a passenger vehicle torched at the local police station.

The deceased has been identified as Captain Ismail Majuf, a Sudanese national and brother of Jalal Mansoor.

He was reportedly shot dead during the assault.

Several other individuals, including the area commander, sustained injuries.

A youth leader in Makpandu, speaking to local media confirmed the attack involved men firing sporadically.

“They came with heavy gunfire, and one refugee was killed and one soldier was injured, some kiosks were looted, and tukuls (huts) belonging to organized forces were burned,” he said.

“A passenger car that came from Juba was also set ablaze at the police station.”

The gunfire triggered widespread panic, forcing residents and refugees to flee into nearby bushes for safety.

Yambio County Commissioner Angelo Bakote told the press that suspected rebels targeted the army base, looting and setting houses on fire.

“One person was shot dead at the refugee camp, and one SSPDF soldier was injured,” Bakote said.

“Forces from Mobile Unit 2 have been deployed to Makpandu to pursue the attackers. The community should remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and avoid panic.”

Major General Samuel Tet, Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner, also confirmed the attack, stating that suspected rebel forces struck the SSPDF base, resulting in one death and the burning of military and wildlife garrisons.

“The situation is now under control,” Tet said.

“There are no more gunshots, and security forces have been deployed.”

Sources indicate multiple items were looted during the raid. Local authorities have launched investigations but have not yet identified the perpetrators or released further details.

Makpandu Refugee Camp hosts hundreds of Sudanese refugees who fled the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Sudan.

State officials say security forces remain deployed in the area to protect civilians.

Local leaders and security organs are holding meetings to discuss measures to prevent further violence and restore confidence among residents and refugees.

The attack underscores persistent security challenges in border areas of Western Equatoria, where refugee camps and military outposts remain vulnerable to armed groups operating in the region.