Civilians Caught in Crossfire as Government-Opposition Clashes Persist Across Regions

On 14 September 2025, at least three civilians—including children and a breastfeeding mother—were seriously wounded in a crossfire incident in Ombaci Boma, Otogo Payam, Yei County. The injuries occurred during an exchange of gunfire between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). According to local sources, the clash erupted when armed soldiers opened fire while pursuing a suspected criminal in the area, inadvertently striking civilians caught in the vicinity. Throughout the month of September, Yei River County witnessed a series of armed confrontations between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO, raising concerns over civilian safety and the growing humanitarian impact of the conflict.