Juba International Airport - File photo.

An Eye Radio reporter at Juba International Airport said the bodies of the servicemen were received by the Minister of Defense, the Presidential Advisor on Security Affairs, and family members of the deceased.

Their deaths occurred in a tragic incident on March 7, 2025, when armed youth opened fire on a UNMISS helicopter involved in an evacuation operation.

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) confirmed on Friday the death of its crew member, General Dak and SSPDF personnel after armed youth in Nasir opened fire on the aircraft attempting to evacuate them in a bid to mitigate rising tensions and prevent further violence in the region.

The confrontation between the SSPDF and the armed youth had already led to significant casualties and forced many civilians to flee their homes.

In response to the violence, President Salva Kiir called for calm and national unity. Speaking to the nation on March 7, Kiir confirmed the tragic deaths of Gen. Dak and several soldiers, condemning the incident.

“As we mourn this loss, we must remain committed to peace and stability,” President Kiir stated. “This attack is a reminder of the ongoing challenges we face, but we must continue to seek dialogue and reconciliation in order to prevent further escalation.”

The tragic incident has deepened concerns over the growing instability in South Sudan, particularly in Upper Nile, and underscored the urgent need for all parties to refocus on peace and resolution efforts.