At least 13 people died in clashes between South Sudan army (SPLA) and the armed opposition fighters in Unity state, the army spokesperson confirmed on Sunday.
South Sudanese soldiers patrol the streets of Unity state capital Bentiu on 12 January 2014.
Colonel Philip Aguer accused the opposition fighters of attacking government-held positions, describing reports blaming pro-government forces for the attack as a "cover up" by rebels.
The SPLA lost five soldiers in rebel attack and one woman, a civilian, was also killed, 20 were wounded, even the commissioner of the county was slightly wounded,” Aguer told reporters in Juba on Sunday.
After we repulsed the attackers, eight bodies of rebels were found on the ground, he added.
Rebels allied to former vice-president, Riek Machar had earlier accused forces loyal to President Salva Kiir of attacking their positions in Unity state, claims Sudan Tribune could not verify.
The counter accusations come in the wake of a permanent ceasefire declared by both factions following last month’s peace deal reached with the help the East African regional bloc (IGAD).
The army spokesperson said the SPLA was in control of the situation, but expressed concerns that rebels could capture some areas before implementing last month’s peace accord.
He called on the United Nations, Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the global community to deploy ceasefire monitors to verify allegations of violations on the ground.
South Sudan’s armed opposition forces said the army attacked their bases on Saturday and Sunday in both Unity and Central Equatoria states.
However, Unity state’s governor, Joseph Monytuil, refuted the armed opposition’s claims, urging the international community to hold rebels responsible for renewed military offensives.
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