Arop Jonchol
By Emmanuel Garjiek
Residents of Enyif neighborhood in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, evacuated their homes on Tuesday following the deployment of government forces, who reinforced their positions and dug trenches—suggesting preparations for a possible confrontation with the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO).
The Enyif area, under SPLA-IO control, lies southwest of Torit town, across the Kineti River. It houses key government institutions, including the state police headquarters, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Torit County administrative offices, along with a large civilian population.
Several residents told Radio Tamazuj they fled out of fear of being caught in potential conflict.
A local resident, identifying himself only as Odongi, reported that South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) arrived around midday, heavily armed.
“They came with machine guns and anti-tank weapons and began digging trenches,” he said. “They claim they don’t want to harm anyone, but people are panicking. Women and children have fled, and now SSPDF soldiers are patrolling the area.”
Another resident, Ihisa, said the sudden deployment caused widespread fear.
“Enyif, also known as Gumbo, is not under government control, yet the SSPDF established checkpoints with mattresses, suggesting a prolonged presence,” she explained. “Residents fled as SPLA-IO forces were away in villages attending traditional ceremonies.”
A local youth leader, Oromo, speaking in the Otuho language, described the area as nearly abandoned.
“There’s an anti-tank gun, machine guns and military trucks here,” he said. “Civilians are confused—some children haven’t finished exams but may miss them because of this.”
Eastern Equatoria State police spokesperson Maj. Justine Kleopus Takuru told Radio Tamazuj that the deployment was carried out under government orders to reinstate a checkpoint.
“This was an SPLA-IO area, but under an agreement, they were supposed to return to their base in Irube,” he said. “The SSPDF is only reinstating their old checkpoint. Civilians have no reason to fear.”
He encouraged residents to return, assuring them of their safety.
State Information Minister Elia John Ahaji stated that he was unaware of the situation but would consult with colleagues.
Charles Okullu Cypriano, executive director of the Peace Link Foundation, described the sudden deployment as “unfortunate,” stating that it fosters unnecessary fear and trauma.
He emphasized the need for authorities to engage with communities before making such decisions.
While commending Governor Louis Lobong Lojore for his leadership, Cypriano cautioned that the instability affecting other parts of South Sudan should not spill into Eastern Equatoria.
“People are already facing hardships; they need stability, not further uncertainty,” he stressed.
