SPLA-IO says 5 killed, 5 captured in clash with SSPDF in Terekeka

JUBA – South Sudan’s main armed opposition, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), accused the government army of attacking its base in Terekeka County, killing four soldiers, and capturing three others.

SPLA-IO spokesman Colonel Lam Paul Gabriel said the attack occurred on February 12 in Namurle village, claiming one local woman died and two civilians were captured alongside their soldiers.

“Four (4) SPLA-IO soldiers killed in action and a woman was also killed while fleeing the area,” Gabriel said in a statement. “Five people (3 SPLA-IO soldiers and two civilians) were captured.”

He identified the captured individuals as Chief Joseph Ayong Adol, Oyai James Rjekiel, Myola, Anthony, and Makir Ayom Malual, along with two unnamed civilians previously detained by local chiefs.

Gabriel demanded the release of all captives and urged the Joint Defense Board leadership to intervene.

“The SPLA-IO demands the immediate release of those captured soldiers together with the civilians from Namurle clash,” he said.

“The SPLA-IO would like to call upon the JDB Co-Chairs to bring this continuous intentional violation to an end before it explodes,” he added.

He also warned of alleged plans to attack other opposition cantonment areas and threatened self-defense if attacked.