The SPLA has denied accusation by the Troika and the European Union that it had carried out offensive against opposition forces at Pagak.
The Troika and the EU said the Pagak fighting “is a clear violation”of the unilateral ceasefire declared by President Salva Kiir on May 22.
They said the reports of fighting calls into question the government’s commitment to reach peace through the National Dialogue.
However, the Spokesperson of the SPLA, Brigadier General Lul Ruai, says the army was fighting in defense and also to protect oilfields from destruction.
“We say once again that we have been trying to contain rebel from infiltrating oilfields with the intention of destroying them,” Gen Ruai told Eye Radio.
“We have been in our defensive positions and fighting back to ensure that they do not get to the oil facilities.”
Last week, the UNMISS reported that the outbreak of heavy fighting risks cutting access to humanitarian assistance in the area with at least 25 aid workers evacuated in recent days because of the increasing insecurity.
Civilian lives are also at risk with 5000 people, from north of Pagak, registering in the town as they pass through towards Ethiopia seeking refuge.