South Sudan armed opposition loyal for former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has come out to comment on the Sunday attack at their base in Pagak.

The town which is located near the Ethiopian border has been a stronghold for the rebels since 2014.

Government announced they had recaptured the town on Sunday evening, claims which couldn’t be substantiated by then.

Also Read: South Sudan Army Recapture Machar Rebel Stronghold Town

But while Speaking to Reuters on Monday morning, rebel deputy spokesman Lam Paul Gabriel confirmed the attack adding that the rebel forces had pulled out of Pagak.

Lam was however quick to mention that pulling out of the town was them admitting a loss but a move to reduce civilian damage.

“We realized it would be costly for civilians and our forces hence withdrew from Pagak,” Lam told Reuters.