South Sudan: Heavy fighting reported in Pagak August 11

Event

Heavy fighting erupted in Pagak, a town bordering Ethiopia, on Friday, August 11, after rebels launched an offensive against government forces. A rebel spokesman said the group was attempting to regain the town, which was captured by government forces on August 7. The fighting began at approximately 05:00 (local time), and is currently ongoing as of Friday afternoon; it is expected to continue for the coming hours.

Context

The South Sudanese People's Liberation Army (SPLA) took control of the rebel headquarters in Pagak on August 7, 2017. The SPLA was involved in heavy fighting during their attempt to secure the site. Approximately 5000 civilians were forced to flee Pagak as a result of the fighting.

A power struggle between President Kiir and Riek Machar escalated into a military conflict in December 2013, leading to tens of thousands of deaths. The conflict has pitted Kiir's Dinka ethnic group against Machar's Nuers. Other ethnic groups have also created militias that have allied with one side or the other, creating a complex network of opposing groups. Fighting intensified in the summer of 2016, especially in Yei state, resulting in thousands of people fleeing the area. The number of South Sudanese citizens displaced by the conflict currently stands at some 3.5 million.

Advice

Due to this and other security concerns, many Western governments advise against nonessential travel to South Sudan. Certain regions should be particularly avoided, including the states of Unity and Upper Nile, the north of Warrap state, parts of Eastern and Central Equatoria states, and areas along the border with the Central African Republic, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If travel is necessary, ensure that proper security protocols are in place.