(JUBA COUNTY) – The Ministry of Mining has instructed the National Security Service (NSS) and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) to take coordinated action against illegal mining in Jebel Iraq, following violent clashes that left four artisanal miners dead and three injured.
The directive, issued on Monday, targets unregulated small-scale mining along the Jebel Iraq–Kulipapa corridor, approximately 30–45 miles northeast of Juba. Sources indicate the recent confrontation occurred when SSPDF soldiers reportedly attempted to remove artisanal miners and local residents from gold-rich sites, allegedly to allow foreign miners to operate. This incident is the second clash between security forces and small-scale miners in less than two months.
The Ministry confirmed receiving preliminary reports of the fatalities and said a full investigation is ongoing. Earlier, in September, an inspection team led by Undersecretary Matiok Santino Akuei documented widespread illegal mining and rising tensions between miners and security personnel.
The Ministry’s latest directive calls for unified enforcement by the NSS, Mining Police, and SSPDF. While intended to curb illegal activity, local mining communities have raised concerns that heavy security deployment may escalate conflicts rather than resolve them. Artisanal miners allege some soldiers are involved in illicit gold operations.
The Ministry also addressed allegations linking Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs, Adut Kiir Mayardit, to mining interests in the area. Previous reports named her as connected to Rocky Mining Industries, but the Ministry clarified that she holds no mining licence in Jebel Iraq or anywhere in South Sudan. Verification shows Rocky Mining Industries does not appear on the South Sudan Mining Cadastre Portal.
Authorities reiterated that licensing of artisanal mining falls under state governments, while the national Ministry handles exploration and large-scale operations. They urged state authorities to mediate disputes among miners to prevent further violence and ensure compliance with the law.
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jebel Iraq–Kulipapa corridor, Juba County, 30–45 miles NE of Juba |
| Incident | Clashes between SSPDF and artisanal miners; 4 dead, 3 injured |
| Government Action | Ministry directive for coordinated enforcement by NSS, SSPDF, Mining Police |
| Allegations | Claims linking Adut Kiir Mayardit to mining; Ministry confirms no involvement |
| Licensing Authority | Artisanal mining – state governments; large-scale mining – national Ministry |
The Ministry said its approach aims to reduce unregulated mining, protect local communities, and maintain lawful operations while safeguarding South Sudan’s mineral resources.
