Fighting erupts between rival SPLA-IO factions in Upper Nile, Gatwech claims victory

JUBA – Fighting has erupted between rival SPLA-IO factions in South Sudan’s Upper Nile state this morning, with leader of the breakaway SPLA-IO faction led by General Simon Gatwech Dual claiming victory.

In a statement, General Simon Gatwech’s group said its forces under the overall command of General Paromi Angui Otien have completely destroyed the SPLA-IO forces led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny.

“The leadership of the SPLM/SPLA (IO) sends a million congratulations to the gallant forces of the SPLA (IO) under the overall command of Gen. Paromi Angui Otien for completely dismantling and totally annihilating the dark forces of Dr Riek Machar in Upper Nile State,” Gatwech said in the statement.

The former SPLA-IO chief of staff further congratulated his forces for defeating the Machar-allied forces which he said have been causing havoc among the civil population in the area.

“I take this opportunity to inform you that his forces no longer have a presence in Northern Upper Nile. Congratulations once again to commanders, officers, soldiers, and freedom fighters for a job well done,” the statement added.