In a concerning development yesterday morning, forces from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) initiated a military operation that extended from the Pagak border post into Nyandera, located in Ethiopia’s Lare district.

This aggressive maneuverer included an attack on a cantonment belonging to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) situated in the border. The violent confrontation has resulted in significant casualties on the Ethiopian side of the border.

Notably, the Lare district Chief Administrator Ato Thuok Muang, who had entered the area to assess the situation and address concerns of his constituents living near the border, sustained injuries during the altercation.

Tragically, several officers from the Ethiopian Federal Police who were accompanying him lost their lives amidst the chaos of the clash. This incident represents a grave escalation in tensions along the border, highlighting the volatile nature of relations not only between South Sudanese factions but also involving Ethiopian authorities.

Local sources have raised alarms about the presence of civilians in the vicinity, which complicates an already precarious situation and raises concerns for their safety amidst ongoing hostilities.