The SPLA says it is launching an investigation into the cause of the clash between the body of guards of General Johnson Olony and those of the Upper Nile State governor, Simon Kun Puoch.

Fighting broke out between the two groups in Malakal town on Tuesday evening and continued yesterday, leaving two people dead.

Army spokesman Colonel Philip Aguer says SPLA forces, commanded by Brigadier Gen Arkanjilo Abanga, have brought the situation under control.

He says Johnson Olony remains the operations commander in Malakal and the surrounding areas.

“The rumor that Johnson Olony has defected is a lie and a cheap propaganda by those who are interested to fish in dirty water,” Col Aguer stated.

“The SPLA command is organizing an investigation team to go to Malakal and investigate into the causes of these incident and we will know soon the facts about who was fighting who and why.”

The UN says more than 1,500 civilians have been displaced from their homes and are sheltering at its camp in the town.