Fighting has erupted again in Unity state between South Sudan’s two main warring parties, SPLA-Juba and SPLA-IO this morning, a local official told Radio Tamazuj.
William Bajuoc Bakuet, Unity State Security Adviser said that forces loyal to SPLA-IO leader Riek Machar on Monday attacked their forces at Unity oil fields, about 37 kilometres north of Bentiu town.
He stated the fighting erupted early in the morning and that fighting was still underway. When asked about who was controlling the oilfield that came under attack, he said that SPLA-Juba was still maintaining its position in the area.
However, the security official admitted that Guit and Nhialdiu counties are still under rebel control.
Philip Aguer, SPLA-Juba spokesperson also confirmed that the SPLA-IO forces attacked Unity camp area at 4:00 am north of Unity State’s capital, but said they were repulsed.
He further said the rebels had shelled the same area at 10:00 a.m. yesterday. Aguer added that casualties of today’s fighting are yet to be established.
Aguer noted also that there were no other attacks reported today in either in Upper Nile or Jonglei states.
Manawa Gatkuoth, a spokesman of SPLA-IO, speaking to Radio Tamazuj, likewise confirmed clashes in the state but said that he still did not have any details about it.
Meanwhile, internally displaced persons who are residing in the United Nations protection camp in Unity state said they heard heavy fighting on Monday morning.
Another source who works for an aid agency in Unity State also confirmed the fighting saying the warring sides have violated the IGAD-brokered ceasefire.
“We have heard today heavy firing between South Sudanese fighters just 30 kilometers north and another 15 kilometer south of the state capital Bentiu,” said the aid worker who wanted to be quoted anonymously.
Another source reported seeing troops movements in Bentiu and Rubkona.
Update, 18:10: This story has been modified to include information from more sources.
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