The first batch of SPLA soldiers to be redeployed outside Juba as part of the August peace agreement has left the city for Mogeri, along the Juba-Bor road.

According to the security arrangements, only less than 5,000 soldiers will remain in Juba while the rest will be redeployed outside the town.

The units that will be allowed to remain in Juba include ceremonial guards, a military band and a logistical battalion.

There will be 3,420 from the government and 1,410 from the SPLM in Opposition.

The rest of the forces will be redeployed 25 kilometers away from Juba town.

The SPLA launched the redeployment of its forces in Juba today.

Eye Radio’s Mayen Deng Athuai saw the first group of soldiers leaving the Gieda Military Headquarters in Juba this afternoon.

“We are now starting with 250 men and women of the SPLA,” said Major-Gen Samson Mabior Lual, Director for Operations at the military base.

According to the peace agreement, ceasefire monitoring teams will verify forces that remain in Juba to make sure that it is not higher than the number allowed.