At least six people have been killed in armed clashes between long-time allies South Sudan and Uganda, Reuters reported. The incident occurred on Monday in the border district of Kajo Keji in South Sudan, News.bg reports.
According to local authorities, five soldiers from the South Sudanese People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) were killed in an armed exchange of fire with Ugandan troops, who, according to the official statement, entered with tanks and artillery.
Ugandan army spokesman Felix Kulaygie said the incident occurred after South Sudanese soldiers entered Uganda's West Nile region and refused to withdraw, leading to a shootout. At least one Ugandan soldier was killed in the clash.
Uganda has been a long-time supporter of the government of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, assisting the country since its struggle for independence in 2011. and during the civil war.
The South Sudanese army confirmed the incident but did not specify the number of casualties. According to a statement from Kajo Keji district, the clash was an unprovoked attack by Uganda.
SSPDF spokesman Lul Ruai Koang announced that the existing joint border committee would work to find a peaceful solution to the recurring territorial disputes between the two countries.
Meanwhile, in March, South Sudan invited the Ugandan army to help secure the capital, Juba, amid rising tensions between President Kiir and his political rival, First Vice President Riek Machar.