Over 70 Killed in Deadly Clash Over Gold Mining Site Near Juba
SSDNEWS News Desk
Reporting from Juba & Central Equatoria State
More than 70 people were killed over the weekend in a violent confrontation at the Jebel Iraq gold mining site on the outskirts of Juba, according to police officials and civil society groups. The incident marks one of the deadliest resources‑related clashes reported in Central Equatoria State in recent years.
Authorities say the attack occurred at an area long known for tensions between illegal miners, armed groups, and private mining interests. A video circulating online shows dozens of bodies lying in open terrain. However, local journalists and residents believe the death toll may be higher, with many people fleeing into nearby bushes.
Police spokesperson Kwacijwok Dominic Amondoc confirmed the attack but said detailed information is still being gathered. “All I know is that unknown gunmen attacked Jebel Iraq at a gold mine. There are more than 70 dead and many more injured,” he said.
The SPLM/A‑IO issued a statement condemning the killings and accusing government forces of responsibility, claiming the area falls under the control of the SSPDF. The opposition group said the army must be held accountable for security failures in the region. An SSPDF spokesperson declined to comment when contacted.
Civil society organizations have also raised an alarm. The Nile Institute for the Study of Human Rights and Transitional Justice condemned the attack, calling it a grave violation of the right to life and a sign of weak state oversight in resource‑rich zones.
“This horrific act highlights the continued vulnerability of civilians in areas affected by a weak security presence and unregulated resource exploitation,” the organization said in a statement.
Human rights advocate Edmund Yakani urged authorities to address the growing competition over natural resources, warning that unregulated mining is fueling violence across the country. “My appeal is to the government to intervene and stop this culture of illegal gold mining,” he said.
The Jebel Iraq site has seen repeated clashes in recent years, reflecting broader national concerns about unregulated mining, armed group activity, and the absence of effective governance in areas rich in gold and other minerals.
Investigations into the latest attack are ongoing.
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