The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) have regained control of Lankien town in Nyirol County, Jonglei State, following fighting with opposition fighters, local officials reported on Wednesday.

Jonglei State Information Minister Nyamar Lony Thichiot told Radio Tamazuj that the county headquarters and nearby villages are now calm after Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) fighters withdrew on Tuesday.

“The SPLA-IO forces under Nathaniel Oyet were defeated and they ran towards Chuil Payam,” she said.

“The situation is now calm with residents starting to return to their homes.”

The minister added that the opposition forces suffered heavy losses, though no specific casualty numbers were provided. She noted that the SSPDF seized all weapons and ammunition from the area.

An eyewitness named Both Jal confirmed the intense fighting, which occurred around noon on Tuesday amid heavy rain.

“The government forces emerged victorious taking over the town,” he said.

“Two vehicles and several weapons were captured by the government side.”

He added that the situation remains tense, with concerns that SPLA-IO forces could attempt a counter-attack.

SPLA-IO officials in Nyirol County could not be reached for immediate comment.

SSPDF-affiliated soldiers shared videos on social media celebrating the recapture of Lankien.

This latest fighting comes less than a week after the government-appointed commissioner of Akobo County was killed in an SPLA-IO attack on Walgak.

The National Civil Society Coalition has recently warned of rising violence in northern Jonglei State and called on all parties to pursue dialogue.