By Aguok Chok
The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) on Saturday released a strong statement which it called a final warning and last appeal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the White Army.
In a statement, Maj Gen. Lul Ruai, the SSPDF spokesperson urged both the SPLA-IO and its allied militia, the white army to withdraw from their current deployment positions or face severe military action.
He highlighted that the intelligence received confirmed the presence of SPLA-IO fighters and White Army forces with heavy weaponry, including ZU-23, 14.5mm, and 12.7mm guns, in Nasir market and near SSPDF defensive positions at Wei-Yar-Adiu.
“In light of their combat readiness and offensive posture, the SSPDF leadership takes this opportunity to issue a final warning,” said Gen. Lul.
“We authoritatively order SPLA-IO fighters to return to their original deployment areas and urge the White Army to go back to their villages and luaks.”
According to him, the forces must comply with the order within one hour, stressing that failure to do so would result in SSPDF deploying aerial support to neutralize the threat.
“We strongly advise SPLA-IO and the White Army to withdraw immediately,” Gen. Lul said.
“Any failure to comply will compel SSPDF to use superior and deadly aerial capabilities.”
The statement came just a day after the SSPDF spokesperson revealed that their forces, in a convoy of defense Riverine Barges, were attacked at Nyathor village, along the Sobat River in Doma Payam, Ulang County.
According to a statement from SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, the attack was launched by a combined force of SPLA-IO fighters, armed youth from Cie-Lang, and affiliated militias. The assailants used combat support weapons, including anti-tank systems, in an attempt to halt the convoy.
However, SSPDF’s specialized riverine units responded with overwhelming firepower, forcing the attackers into a disorganized retreat. The convoy was able to proceed with its mission of troop rotation in Nasir without further disruption.
“We appeal to all armed groups to end these confrontations and allow peace to prevail,” said Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang.