At least three soldiers were killed and 15 others injured in a clash in Yei River County in Central Equatoria State.

The soldiers are members of the Wounded Heroes unit.

The Police Commissioner in the county, Colonel Jeremiah Maker Nai, said the fighting resulted from a salary dispute between two military leaders.

He said soldiers headed by one Major Akech Majak clashed with those headed by another lieutenant Colonel Isaac Lual.

“The total loss in general includes fifteen injured, three dead,” said Col Nai.

He urged the area residents to stay calm as the government looks into the matter.

“The situation is okay. I would like to call on the citizens in Yei to stay calm. Let them continue with their normal businesses, and people should move without fear,” he added.

A medical doctor in the county, Joseph Malish, said five soldiers who were critically injured have been airlifted to Juba Teaching Hospital.

“The head office in Juba sent a military chopper to evacuate those seriously injured.”

Out of the wounded, only five sustained serious gun wounds.