MAYOM, South Sudan, July 1, 2025 — The South Sudan People’s Defense Force has launched a disarmament operation in Mayom County, prompting warnings from the local commissioner about the use of force and urging youth to surrender illegal firearms, local officials said, July 1, 2025.
Mayom County Commissioner James Kuol said the SSPDF consulted community leaders before the campaign but alleged that some soldiers assaulted individuals who resisted while armed. “The SSPDF is confusing the communities. We accepted disarmament, but not a forceful one,” the commissioner told The Juba Mirror.
The operation began at the county headquarters and has expanded to Mankien Payam. Despite a reported injury and heightened military presence, officials said the situation remains calm.
SSPDF Division 4 is leading the initiative, which is expected to reach all payams in Mayom County. The commissioner warned that armed youth found in violation of the order “will be dealt with.”
Officials estimate that about 90% of youth in Mayom are armed, reflecting the legacy of prolonged conflict and insecurity in South Sudan.
