Civilians, predominantly women and children, cross the Akobo River into Ethiopia on Monday, March 9, 2026. 📸: Courtesy of Ruot Bayoch)

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) is seeking clarification from the United Nations following allegations that key water sources in the country have been destroyed or poisoned during the ongoing conflict.

The UN Commission for Human Rights office’s statement also cited reports of civilian killings and fresh waves of displacement.

“We are horrified by the growing accounts of serious violations in the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, including gruesome killings, the destruction and poisoning of key water sources, and fresh waves of mass displacement,” the UN human rights office said.

The UN did not specify those responsible for the alleged acts but warned that attacks on essential infrastructure could worsen humanitarian conditions for civilians already affected by violence and displacement.

Reacting to the UN report, army spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang said the claims require specific details, including where the alleged incidents occurred and how they were verified.

“The author of that statement should clarify where the poisoning took place, what kind of substance was used, and who carried out the poisoning of the water points,” Major General Lul said.

“Those who did this, where were they getting their water from? To poison a water point, you must have your own source of water. Let them show us where the testing was done. They should not issue a vague statement that causes problems.”

His remarks follow a statement by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights expressing concern over reports of water source destruction and poisoning amid the ongoing conflict.