A source in the loyalist SPLA-Juba Infantry Division One says the SPLA-In Opposition rebels captured Gongbaar, Upper Nile on Wednesday.
The source said the fighting took place from 4 until 8 pm with heavy exchange of gunfire until the pro-government forces staged a tactical withdrawal.
He told Radio Tamazuj the rebels’ initial assault was repulsed and four opposition soldiers were found dead, but the division was overrun in the second attack because they were outnumbered.
The source could not confirm any numbers of casualities.
Gongbaar is described as a village near the border with Sudan about 40 kilometers east of Renk in the panhandle of Upper Nile state.
He also revealed clashes at Amdhalwich two kilometers from Gongbaar.
The source said an SPLA-Juba mobile unit is “under way” to recapture the town.
Acting Upper Nile information minister Gatluak Liphos confirmed the clashes at Gongbaar, saying hundreds of civilians were displaced by the fighting toward the south of Renk county.
Philip Aguer, SPLA-Juba spokesperson, also confirmed the fighting.
“Yes, there was an attack by Riek Machar forces on SPLA camps in areas east of Renk,” he said, adding that he is still expecting more information from the field and soon will make a statement.
The rebels in the area could not be reached due to poor telephone connections.
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