Juba — 27 April 2026 Heavy fighting has been reported in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), particularly in Likuangole County, according to eyewitnesses and local officials. 

Witnesses told this publication that clashes erupted in the early hours of Sunday between forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces. The violence reportedly followed an attack allegedly carried out by SPLA-IO fighters supported by the White Army militia. 

Jacob Werchum Jouk, Information Minister for the GPAA, confirmed on Monday that the fighting began after SPLA-IO forces loyal to the main opposition group—backed by the White Army—attacked government troops in the border village of Wuno, located in Likuangole County. 

The minister said local youth mobilized to support government forces in repelling the attackers, who he claimed had advanced from Uror County in Jonglei State. According to Jouk, the confrontation developed into a prolonged and intense gun battle lasting throughout the day. 

“Our local youth engaged the attackers throughout the day, and they were pushed back,” he said. “They came from Uror County, particularly from the Yuai area.” 

Jouk declined to provide details on casualties, noting that assessments are still ongoing. However, he stated that calm has since returned to the area and that local forces have regained control. 

“We are still gathering details on the casualties. Our youth are in full control of the area. They managed to hold the advance by the attackers and pushed them back,” he added. 

The violence in Likuangole comes amid escalating tensions in Jonglei State and surrounding regions. Just a week earlier, SPLA-IO forces reportedly seized control of Akobo, a key border town, after government troops had briefly recaptured it. The fighting in Akobo drew condemnation from both regional and international actors, while authorities ordered non-governmental organizations to evacuate the area within 72 hours