By Manas James Okony
Fresh clashes erupted in Fangak County. In early hours of Wednesday morning, leaving scores dead.
The clashed involved South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) against Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) and White Army.
The violence took place in Jonglei State’s town of New Fangak and has resulted in numerous fatalities.
Commander of SSPDF’s special operations forces, Maj. Gen. Parom Angui, told No. 1 Citizen Newspaper that the fighting began when the government army barracks came under heavy attack.
“At 5 am this morning, we were attacked in New Fangak town. We managed to repel the attackers, and the town is currently under our control,” he stated.
While Gen. Parom mentioned that dozens were killed during the skirmish, he refrained from providing specific figures.
“The attackers left behind multiple bodies. On our side, we have sustained losses as well, but they are relatively minor. We are currently in the process of collecting and counting the dead,” he explained.
Following the clashes, Gen. Parom indicated that the town remains deserted.
“There are no civilians left in the town. Local youth have joined the SPLA-IO in fighting against us,” he said.
SPLA-IO could not immediately be reached for comments.