A herd of cattle in Lakes State | Credit | File photo

15 soldiers who deserted SPLA Division 3 base in Tonj East County are believed to have been involved in a cattle raiding incident at the bordering state of Unity.

On Tuesday, the soldiers escaped from their base and opened fire at a police garrison in the area.

One of the soldiers was killed, and the others escaped into the bush.

The Deputy Line Commander for Division 3 in Warrap state, William Manyang, said the men were asked to return to their position but refused to surrender themselves, leading to a shoot-out.

“They wanted to go and search for wealth through cattle raiding,” said Cdr. Manyang, “they went and joined hands with criminals there and went to raid cattle.”

Mr. Manyang said that police are still pursuing the soldiers-turned-fugitives.