Church Leadership Demands Accountability After Army Attack on Parish in Eastern Equatoria

The Catholic Diocese of Torit has issued a forceful condemnation following a violent assault by members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) on church staff in Magwi County, Eastern Equatoria State. The incident took place on 26 March 2025 at the premises of Our Lady of Assumption Parish in the town of Loa, where a civilian was killed and another injured in what church officials describe as a deeply troubling and unlawful act by state military personnel.

According to an official statement by Bishop Emmanuel Bernardino Lowi Napeta, the bishop of Torit Diocese, SSPDF forces reportedly stormed the parish grounds, leading to the fatal shooting of one individual and injuries to another. The bishop revealed that attempts were made to conceal the crime, including hiding the body and cleaning blood from the site.

“This attack violates the sanctity of our sacred premises and the rights of the community,” said Bishop Lowi. “It represents a serious breach of international humanitarian law.”

The bishop’s statement, delivered through the Catholic Radio Network, also called on the government of South Sudan to carry out a full and impartial investigation. He urged that those responsible within the army be brought to justice without delay. The appeal for justice comes amidst broader national concerns about military conduct and impunity within the armed forces.

Church officials have stressed that the incident not only endangered the lives of clergy and lay personnel, but also undermines trust between religious communities and the state. The Diocese has asked the authorities to implement safeguards to prevent any further violations against religious institutions or civilians.

South Sudan’s armed forces, including the SSPDF, have faced repeated criticism over the years for alleged abuses of power, especially in rural areas where military presence remains strong due to ongoing insecurity. Despite peace agreements and a transitional government in place, violence and lawlessness persist in many regions, often with limited consequences for those involved.

As part of the response, the Diocese of Torit is seeking collaboration with human rights organisations and legal bodies to bring international attention to the attack, particularly given its violation of the Geneva Conventions concerning protection of civilians and religious institutions.

This latest development adds to a series of incidents that have raised questions over discipline and accountability within South Sudan’s security sector. In his address, Bishop Lowi reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation, but warned that without state action, the cycle of violence and mistrust will continue.

The South Sudanese government has yet to issue an official response to the accusations, nor has the SSPDF acknowledged or commented publicly on the incident.

The Diocese of Torit has stated that it will remain vigilant and continue to call for justice, insisting that sacred spaces must never be turned into zones of violence.