A file photo of SPLA-IO forces in an undisclosed location in South Sudan. [Photo: Courtesy]

Uganda’s Arua One FM reported on Thursday that unidentified group of armed people suspected to be SPLA-IO from South Sudan stormed Busia Trading Centre, shot bullets in the air to scare civilians, and looted some property.

JUBA –The Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) have denied reports that its forces have crossed into Busia border in Koboko District in North Western Uganda. 

Uganda’s Arua One FM reported on Thursday that unidentified group of armed people suspected to be SPLA-IO from South Sudan stormed Busia Trading Centre, shot bullets in the air to scare civilians, and looted some properties.

The station referenced the police spokesperson West Nile, Collins Asea, saying that police officers and other sister forces were pursuing the suspects.

In response, the SPLA-IO said the Thursday morning clash did not spill-over to the border between the two countries, claiming those involved in the incursion were members of the SSPDF who escaped combat. 

“The SPLA-IO had a long fruitful relationship with the border community of Busia since 2018. This relationship cannot be broken today even if UPDF supports SSPDF,” said Col. Lam Paul Gabriel, the Spokesperson of SPLA-IO. “The fighting of this morning in Panyume never reached Busia border.”

Mr Lam also slammed the Ugandan authorities for intentionally failing to foil alleged incursion in a bid to frame the SPLA-IO.

“Those who fired bullets and looted Busia are SSPDF remnants who crossed to Uganda side with their weapons after the clashes in Panyume. Your security failed to disarm them because you are allies; so, you should take full responsibility for your actions instead of pointing fingers at the SPLA-IO forces,” he said. 

“The SPLA-IO doesn’t operate outside South Sudan. Check your sources well and know who your real threats are. Peace,” Lam added.

The allegation came hours after the SPLA-IO issued a statement Thursday claiming that it has recaptured Kendila, Panyume, Mongoya and Lujulo payams in Morobo County after allegedly defeating the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and members of the National Security Service (NSS) in Central Equatoria State.

Lam claimed Thursday that the SPLA-IO under the command of Maj. Gen. John Mabieh Gar destroyed 3 Land Cruisers mounted with 12.7, 1 APC (Wulit) and captured 80 AK 47 assault rifles in good condition and 12 PKMs from SSPDF.

He also that alleged about 10 officers from the government forces were killed and 30 others wounded, while the SPLA-IO lost 6 soldiers and eight others sustained gunshot injuries. Sudan's Post