The White Army has asserted control over Nasir, South Sudan, following intense clashes with government forces. A White Army leader reported the expulsion of SSPDF troops and claims heavy losses on their side. However, exact casualty figures remain unclear as government statements are pending. This event raises concerns about escalating violence in Upper Nile State, a historically troubled region.
A militia group known as the White Army has announced its takeover of the crucial town of Nasir in Upper Nile State, South Sudan, after fierce confrontations with government forces. This declaration was made on Tuesday, following extensive fighting with the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). The White Army, primarily composed of Nuer youth, claims to have ousted government troops from the area.
Ter Chuol Gatkuoth, a leader of the White Army in Nasir, communicated to Radio Tamazuj that their armed contingent successfully expelled government forces. He stated, “We clashed with government soldiers this morning and chased them away. They are now in the bushes… We have taken over their military barracks in Wei-Yar-Adiu. We have seized their heavy machine guns and a barge they used to transport troops.”
Mr. Gatkuoth further asserted that there were significant casualties among the SSPDF, with several bodies remaining on the battlefield, while the White Army suffered losses exceeding 21 fighters. He acknowledged a lack of detailed information concerning the precise number of SSPDF casualties.
Upper Nile State’s Information Minister, James Basha, corroborated ongoing hostilities in Nasir while cautioning that casualty figures are still being confirmed. He remarked, “Clashes resumed in Nasir on Tuesday morning, and the White Army took part of the army barracks. There are casualties, but we are still gathering details.”
The SSPDF has yet to issue a comprehensive statement regarding the situation. The spokesperson for the SSPDF, Major General Lul Ruai Koang, indicated on his official Facebook page that the military was unable to provide a media briefing on the security developments in Nasir and surrounding areas.
Given its strategic position near the Ethiopian border, Nasir has historically been a focal point of unrest in South Sudan. The White Army, notorious for its role in ethnic violence and opposition to government forces, has previously been a significant player in the region’s conflicts. This recent advance raises concerns about the worsening violence in Upper Nile state, which has suffered from instability since 2013.
The White Army’s assertion of control over Nasir follows intense fighting with the SSPDF, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. This situation illustrates the ongoing volatility in Upper Nile State, exacerbating fears regarding the escalation of violence in a region already plagued by civil strife since 2013. Official confirmations regarding the number of casualties and the SSPDF’s position remain limited as the situation unfolds.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
