South Sudan: Heavy Fighting Erupts in Kersana Between SAF and SPLA, Aguer Says - AllAfrica.com

Juba — Heavy fighting is taking place between the South Sudan Army, SPLA, and the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) in Kersana, another disputed area, said the South Sudan's army spokesman, Philip Aguer.

Aguer told the BBC that the fighting occurred in the border area of Kersana, which is 41 kilometers north of Heglig or Panthou, which was captured since Tuesday by the South Sudan army.

The SPLA spokesperson denied reports that there was fighting in the outskirts of Heglig on Friday as it was stated by the Sudanese army on Friday.

He said no fighting has yet taken place around Heglig, but he however added that he expected more fighting on Saturday as the SPLA was advancing northwards and blocking all routes leading to Heglig.

He reaffirmed that the SPLA will soon take control of Kersana town, which South Sudan claims as its bordering town near the 1956 borders with Sudan.

Aguer further said his government told the UN forces in Abyei not to allow SAF passage through the area, warning that if it did the SPLA would further advance into Abyei town itself.