Igele Farm in Ifwotu Payam, Torit County – Courtesy photo

The Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Louis Lobong Lojore, says three attacking fighters were killed following clashes between SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces after the SPLA-IO reportedly attacked a local farm this morning.

Speaking to Eye Radio on Friday morning, Governor Lobong says the assault was allegedly carried out by forces linked to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition and targeted Igele Farm in Ifwotu Payam in Torit County.

He says the attack occurred in the early hours of Friday morning, with reports indicating that armed attackers raided the farm before being confronted, leading to a brief clash in which three of the assailants were killed.

Governor Lobong says the opposition group targeted the farm in an attempt to loot food and intimidate workers.

He said the attackers fled the scene after the SSPDF confrontation. He added that the raid may have been intended to create fear among civilians and disrupt activities at the farm.

“Yes, and it was the raid. By SPLM-IO the rebels. I was at the at Igele Farm in Ifwotu Payam, Eastern Equatoria. The three people were still. I think they were trying to come and scare the people and steal the food or something. They ran away and three of them were killed,” he saud.

The attack adds to growing security concerns in parts of Eastern Equatoria, with authorities yet to provide further details on the situation or any additional casualties.

The SPLM/SPLA-IO has not commented on the attack.