The Upper Nile state Minister of Information says fighting between government and rebel forces is ongoing in Malakal.

Philip Jiben said the government is still battling in a bid to retake the town from forces loyal to Dr. Riek Machar.

Mr Jiben told Eye Radio that the SPLA is careful in its offensive because the majority of anti-government soldiers are wearing plain clothes, which makes it difficult to distinguish them from civilians.

“There was a heavy exchange of fire and serious clashes this morning within the town and the surrounding areas,” said Mr Jiben. “The fighting was mainly centered within the main town and the headquarters of the army.”

“Currently, all the civilians are in the churches and others are sheltering at the hospital. The roads within Malakal are empty, there is no one moving. So this morning there was heavy fighting and it is still going on.”

Mr. Jiben said government forces are launching an offensive to retake the town from the rebels.

Over the weekend, the SPLA retook the town of Bor in Jonglei state from the rebels.