South Sudanese government forces recaptured the capital of Upper Nile State from SPLA-IO rebels and allied Aguelek militia forces on Monday without serious fighting in the city.

UN Spokesman in New York Farhan Haq said, “UNMISS observed approximately 400 SPLA troops driving past its compound in the direction of Malakal Town led by tanks and armored personnel carriers.”

“No fighting was subsequently heard, indicating that SPLA troops have regained control of the Upper Nile State capital and armed opposition forces had withdrawn from Malakal prior to the arrival of government troops,” he added.

SPLA-Juba spokesman Colonel Philip Aguer confirmed the capture of Malakal on Monday morning following the withdrawal of the rebels on Sunday evening. He told Radio Tamazuj that the city was captured without a fight but noted that there were earlier clashes elsewhere in the area.

Malakal town was already mostly depopulated since early last year, following back and forth fighting for control of the city. Both sides were accused of perpetrating atrocities against civilians which caused them to flee to a UN base for protection.