Ambush in South Sudan Claims Lives of Soldiers Amid Ongoing Tensions
At least ten soldiers were killed in South Sudan’s Upper Nile state after being ambushed by armed youths, with the army blaming the SPLM-IO. The opposition denies involvement, claiming the government attacked civilians first. This incident reflects ongoing violence and political instability in the region.
On February 16, 2023, the South Sudanese army reported that at least ten soldiers were killed and twenty-one others injured following an ambush in the eastern state of Upper Nile. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. in the town of Nasir, as stated by army spokesperson Lul Ruai Kong. He attributed the attack to the armed faction of the opposition party, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), led by Vice President Riek Machar.
The ambush in Nasir highlights ongoing tensions between the South Sudanese army and opposition forces, amidst a fragile political climate following a government reshuffle. While the army accuses the SPLM-IO of incitement, opposition representatives deny involvement and claim government forces are to blame for escalating violence. As clashes become increasingly common, the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement remains critical yet challenged.
Original Source: efe.com
