Army Revises Death Toll to 36 in Deadly Attack on Artisanal Miners in Khor Kaltan
By Patricia John
A deadly armed attack on artisanal miners in Khor Kaltan, Central Equatoria State, has left at least 36 people dead, according to a revised casualty report released by South Sudan Peopele Defense Forces army Spokesperson.
Army spokesperson Lul Ruai Koang said the incident occurred on the evening of March 28, 2026, at approximately 7:17 PM. He stated that a combined force allegedly made up of elements from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the National Salvation Front (NAS) carried out a surprise attack on the mining site.
“Initial reports indicated significantly higher casualties, but after further investigations, the total number of fatalities has been adjusted downward from 73 to 36,” he said.
According to the spokesperson, the victims include 12 soldiers who were killed while defending the area and 24 civilians, many of whom were artisanal miners caught in the attack. At least three soldiers sustained gunshot wounds, while more than 20 civilians were injured.
Medical officials confirmed that critically injured victims are receiving treatment at a facility operated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), while those with less severe injuries are being treated at Dupal Military Referral Hospital in Yadu.
Maj. Gen. Lul also said that the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) launched an immediate pursuit operation following the attack. On March 29 at around 10:00 AM, government forces reportedly engaged the retreating fighters, resulting in the deaths of several opposition combatants, including a senior commander identified as Brigadier General Adarango.
He attributed earlier discrepancies in casualty figures to confusion in the immediate aftermath of the attack, citing information gaps, the chaotic situation, and difficulties in distinguishing between those killed, injured, and initially reported missing but later found alive.
Officials said the revised figures are based on intelligence reports, eyewitness accounts, and community-based verification. The situation in the area remains tense as investigations continue.
