S Sudan rebels: Johnson Olony is on our side
A spokesperson for South Sudan's armed opposition said that Major General Johnson Olony has defected to their side and is control of the Upper Nile state capital of Malakal.
"Our forces under the overall command of General Johnson Olony recaptured Upper Nile state’s capital, Malakal, on Saturday from pro-Salva Kiir’s forces. We are now in full control of the town and its surroundings," said James Gatdet Dak.
The spokesperson said Olony's forces captured seven tanks and five trucks mounted with heavy machine guns. He added that the rebels now control Anakdiar and Kodok areas in the state as well.
"Our forces were responding in self-defence after government troops attacked them in the southern part of the capital," he claimed.
Related:
Rebels deny attacking Malakal, unclear who controls town (16 May)
Fighting resumes in Malakal town (16 May)