26 killed in attack on SSPDF barracks in Warrap state

KUAJOK, South Sudan — September 4, 2026: At least 26 people were killed and eight others wounded when armed youth attacked a South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) military barracks in Acong-cong, Warrap State, the state government said.

The attack occurred at about 5 a.m. and targeted the military installation, which authorities said had been established to help maintain law and order between the Marial Wau and Apuk Gii communities.

According to a statement issued by the Warrap State Ministry of Information and Communication Services, those killed included 10 SSPDF personnel, six police officers and four civilians. The ministry said an 11-year-old boy was among the civilians killed at the barracks.

The statement also said six attackers were killed during the incident and that eight people were wounded, including a woman.

The government did not provide further details about what triggered the attack or whether arrests had been made.

“The motive of attacking a military installation remains unknown and shall be established through investigations,” the state government said.

Authorities said security agencies had been directed to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice.

The Warrap State government, led by Governor Bol Wek Agoth, expressed condolences to the families and colleagues of those killed, saying the security personnel had died while protecting civilians.

“The government remains resolute in its commitment to maintain peace, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting civilian lives,” the statement said.