The South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum for peacekeepers, humanitarian agencies and civilians to leave Akobo County in Jonglei State as the army prepares to launch a new phase of military operations in the area.
“After successful completion of 1st Phase of Operation
Enduring Peace, Akobo town and surrounding areas are the next targets for 2nd
phase of offensive military operations,” Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, SSPDF
spokesperson, told reporters during a press conference on Friday in Juba.
“In light of looming shift in the theatre of operations,
SSPDF Chief Defense Forces, Gen. Paul Nang hereby issues the following orders. Orders
for closure and immediate withdrawal of UNMISS forces from their Temporary
Operating Base in Akobo town within 72 hours.”
The military directive also applies to UN agencies,
non-governmental organizations and their staff currently operating in the area.
Ruai also urged civilians living in Akobo town and nearby
villages to relocate to safer locations before the deadline expires.
“All civilians living in Akobo town and surrounding villages
are hereby ordered to either relocate to the nearest SSPDF controlled areas or
leave for areas they deem safer,” he said.
The order follows clashes between government and opposition
forces in Jonglei State since December after opposition fighters captured
Nyirol, Ayod, Akobo and Duk counties.