The opposition National Salvation Front (NAS) has accused South Sudanese army of “unprovoked” attacks in Lainya and Wonduruba areas of South Sudan’s Central Equatoria State.

The two attacks, the group said in a statement, occurred on January 26.

“Using Katigiri and Loka West as the launching pad, the SSPDF conducted a daring incursion into NAS positions. As we report, the military engagement is ongoing and NAS gallant forces are actively resisting these attacks resulted in desertion of some SSPDF soldiers to Juba especially those who did not want to be used by Kiir regime in keeping them in power,” partly reads the statement extended to Sudan Tribune.

The hold-out group, however, said it is closely monitoring this development, expressing its readiness to “contain and defeat” the country’s military.

“On a special note, the leadership of NAS directs NAS forces in all area command to observe maximum readiness in defense of their lives and positions as well as protect the civilians and their property,” it stressed.

Meanwhile, the hold-out opposition group reiterated its commitment to the cessation of hostilities agreement signed on December 21, 2017 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and the Rome Declaration signed on January 20, 2020.