JUBA/GENEVA - The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan today expressed grave concern over reports that bodies have been uncovered in Jonglei State during recent road works, warning that the true human cost of the country's renewed violence may be far greater than currently known.
Initial information suggests that the remains may be those of combatants killed during earlier fighting, although the circumstances surrounding their deaths and burial remain unclear. The reports emerge amid renewed conflict in the country, including intense fighting around Akobo in recent days, where control of territory has reportedly shifted between South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) and SPLA-IO elements.
"These reports are deeply troubling. The discovery of human remains in a conflict-affected area is always a matter of serious concern," said Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission. "While the facts are still emerging, it is essential that these sites are handled with care and in accordance with proper procedures to establish the truth about what occurred. The possibility that victims may be buried in unmarked sites points to an even more disturbing reality - one in which the full extent of suffering is being hidden."
The Commission stressed that any such sites must be secured and preserved for independent, impartial, and professional investigation, including appropriate forensic examination, in line with international standards.
"Proper handling of burial sites is critical not only for establishing accountability, but also for preserving forensic evidence," said Commissioner Barney Afako. "Failure to follow due process risks losing vital information about the circumstances in which these individuals died. When conflict intensifies in this way, with limited transparency and weak accountability, there is a real risk that serious violations are occurring beyond public view. This is precisely the moment for urgent political intervention."
The Commission warned that the resumption of hostilities reflects a broader breakdown of the peace agreement and a return to patterns of violence that have historically led to mass atrocities.
The Commission also emphasized that the discovery of graves linked to conflict raises serious concerns under international humanitarian and human rights law and requires prompt, independent and impartial investigation. It underscored the rights of families to know the fate of their relatives and to have their dignity respected.
"Families have the right to know the fate and whereabouts of their relatives, and to have their remains treated with dignity," said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández. "All efforts must be made to ensure that remains are identified where possible and that investigations are conducted transparently and in accordance with international law. It will be essential to secure the sites, conduct proper forensic investigations, and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable. Failure to do so risks entrenching impunity."
The Commission called on the relevant authorities to ensure that proper procedures are followed and to facilitate any necessary independent verification.
