SPLA spokesman Col.Philip Aguer has admitted that they lost control of part of Mundri town in Western Equatoria State to an unknown armed group fighting the government.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Aguer stated that the town of Mundri is divided between the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) and armed group. He confirmed that SPLA suffered casualties in recent fighting, but he did not further details about losses from their side.

The spokesman further said the SPLA forces are now clearing the area in an attempt to avoid losses among civilians. He added that a large number of local residents have fled to look for safety. The officer called on the local authorities to talk to the armed group for the sake of stability in the area.

Separately, Philip Aguer noted clashes also erupted between the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) with an armed group southwest Maridi town a few days ago, claiming they captured weapons and military equipments.

The armed group ran toward the border with Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the SPLA spokesman.

Speaking in New York recently, Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General Farhan Haq disclosed that UNMISS reported that Mundri town was divided between Sudan People’s Liberation Army and an unknown armed militia.

Related: 

SPLA loses control of part of Mundri Town (13 Oct.)

Understanding new violence in South Sudan's Western Equatoria (10 Oct.)