Opposition general allied to Cirilo, over 1500 soldiers abandon Cirilo, join Malong

JUBA – A senior South Sudan opposition commander belonging to the South Sudan National Salvation Front (NAS) led by General Thomas Cirilo’s Swaka has declared his intention to abandon the group and join the South Sudan United Front (SSUF/A) led by General Paul Malong.

In a statement, Lt. Gen. Richard Lokole Loteka who is currently in Egypt said he has defected along with his forces and decided to join the South Sudan United Front led by Malong, the former army chief of South Sudan army.

“We are announcing officially (our breaking away) from NAS and joining SSUF/A with all our forces fighting men and women,” they said in a statement earlier this week.

“I call upon all our officers, men and women, to adhere to these orders.” We are looking forward to working with your highly esteemed self, and command and waiting for your further directives and orders,” he added.