By Pam Chuol Joack,
Gambella Vision Reporter
Heavy fighting has erupted in Pagak, a Payam in Maiwut County, South Sudan, between the South S
udan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO).
Local sources report that SSPDF troops, supported by some locals in the community who are loyal to the government, launched a significant offensive against SPLM-IO positions in Wangkuarbi and Lenydey.
The clashes have escalated to the vicinity of Lenydey, a strategic area near the Ethiopian border, where SSPDF forces and their allies captured a village base populated by civilians. During the assault, the village was reportedly set ablaze, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes.
In response to the deteriorating security situation along the Ethio–South Sudan border, the Chief

Thuok Muang, Lare Woreda Chief Administrator was shot when trying to check members of his constitutent they are okay
Administrator of Lare Woreda in Gambella was sent to assess conditions at Kubree, an Ethiopian town in the border adjacent to Pagak of South Sudan.
Unfortunately, he was shot and injured during the mission but is currently reported to be in stable condition. Additionally, one vehicle from his convoy was seized by SSPDF forces that crossed into Ethiopian territory amid the conflict.
As fighting continues between the SSPDF and the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), regional authorities are closely monitoring developments. Dozens of ENDF troops are enroute to Kubree, an Ethiopian border town adjacent to Pagak of South Sudan to protect the sovereignty and Ethiopian population from any possible harm from the wild dogs. The injured administrator is being transported to Gambella city for further medical treatment.
Pam Chuol Joack is a contributor and reporter of the Gambella Vision
Gambella Vision