S. Sudan rebels claim control of Leer town in Unity state

June 29, 2015 (KAMPALA) -South Sudanese rebels’ allied to former vice president, Riek Machar claimed their forces have regained control of Leer county in Unity state from pro government troops.

Major Weirial Puok Baluang, the media relations officer for the rebel-appointed governor, said rebels took control of the town at about 12:00AM on Monday.

He said most armed youths deserted the area after pro government troops attacked the area last month. The army allegedly confiscated several properties belonging to citizens.

“The group of Salva Kiir forces have been looting civilians’ properties, including their sources of livelihood such as cattle’s and others belongings. Therefore, their action on civilians angered of youths who retaliated and attacked them,” said Baluang.

The rebel official claimed the area was liberated by youth from Leer communities. He said cows belonging to citizens were all looted by armed youths coming from Mayom county and neighboring Warrap state that backed government forces in Unity state.

He further said the youth who liberated Leer town were commanded by Brigadier Gen. Peter Keah Jal, a militarily commissioner for armed opposition in the now rebel-held area.

Last week, a former commissioner-turned rebel, of accused pro-government forces of allegedly looting thousand herds of cattle in Guit and Rubkotna counties of Unity state.

Leer county was last month captured by pro-government forces, displacing several civilians.

Over 100,000 civilians were displaced into bushes, acccording to the United Nations as humanitarian agencies operating in the area warned of severe famine in coming months.

(ST).