Border Clash Between Ugandan and South Sudanese Troops Leaves At Least Four Dead

At least four South Sudanese security personnel have been killed in a violent confrontation with Ugandan forces near the disputed border between the two countries, local officials report, as tensions over boundary demarcation escalate.

Ugandan military spokesperson Major General Felix Kulayigye confirmed that three South Sudanese soldiers were shot dead on Monday after Ugandan troops retaliated following the death of one of their own soldiers. However, Wani Jackson Mule, a local official in South Sudan’s Central Equatoria state, reported receiving the bodies of five soldiers.

Uganda has a long history of military involvement in South Sudan, including providing support to President Salva Kiir’s government, with special forces deployed since March.

South Sudanese military spokesman Major General Lul Ruai Koang announced that military leaders from both countries have agreed to an immediate ceasefire to investigate the incident.

Local South Sudan army commander Henry Buri stated that Ugandan forces were heavily armed with tanks and artillery, targeting 19 joint operation troops. There has been no official response from the Ugandan government.

Local county officials earlier confirmed casualties on both sides but did not specify numbers.

The exact cause of Monday’s fighting remains unclear. According to Major General Kulayigye, the clashes began after South Sudanese soldiers crossed into Uganda’s West Nile region, set up camp, and refused to leave, prompting the Ugandan army to use force.

The border area has been a longstanding point of contention, contributing to the fragile peace between the two neighboring nations.