Clashes Reported in Yei as Government and SPLM-IO Trade Claims

(YEI COUNTY) – Renewed clashes broke out early Saturday morning in parts of Yei County, Central Equatoria State, with both government and opposition forces reporting conflicting accounts of the fighting.

According to County Commissioner Emmanuel Seme, barracks belonging to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) in Lasu and Libogo came under attack at about 5 a.m. He said the assault was carried out by forces loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO).

Seme told local media that government soldiers successfully repelled the offensive and were now assessing the extent of damage caused. He did not immediately provide details on casualties or losses on either side.

However, SPLM-IO issued a statement on its official social media channels claiming that its fighters had taken control of both Lasu and Libogo following the morning clashes. The group said its forces were still maintaining positions in the contested areas, though this account has not been independently verified.

Updates will follow.