SPLA loyal to South Sudan’s former Vice President Riek Machar claim they have taken control of the strategic oil rich region of Unity state.
SPLA spokesperson, Col. Philip Aguer confirmed the fall of Unity state following a declaration by the SPLA Division 4 overall commander, Maj. Gen. Koang Chuol that the region was officially in control of forces loyal to Machar.
Machar also alleges that Uganda’s air force bombed areas around Bor town in Jonglei State in an attempt to retake it from General Peter Gadet’s forces, which is now formally aligned with Machar.
The Ugandan government denied bombing Bor, although they confirmed the presence of their troops inside South Sudan “to rescue their nationals.”
Machar’s forces are also said to be in control of Mangala military base, which is about 30 kilometers from Juba; however, this is unconfirmed.
The United States has publicly warned that the international community will not condone or recognize any attempt by rebels to take over Juba.