South Sudan rebels seize Jonglei's capital Bor

Civilians seeking refuge in the UNMISS compound in Bor, capital of Jonglei state. PHOTO|UN Mission in South Sudan

What you need to know:

  • Defence Minister Kuol Manyang Juuk confirmed to local media that the military had lost control of the state capital.
  • Forces commanded by former divisional commander, Peter Gatdet, who switched his loyalty to Mr Riek on Wednesday, stormed and seized the capital last evening, said Bor Town Mayor Nhial Majak.

South Sudan rebels loyal to former vice president Riek Machar have seized the Jonglei State capital Bor, killing and displacing civilians, officials have confirmed.

Forces commanded by former divisional commander, Peter Gatdet, who switched his loyalty to Mr Riek on Wednesday, stormed and seized the capital last evening, said Bor Town Mayor Nhial Majak.

"They are in control of Bor. People are now running to Athooch," he told Africa Review, referring to a payam north of Bor Town.

"This morning, they continued shooting," he said.

Defence Minister Kuol Manyang Juuk confirmed to local media that the military had lost control of the state capital.

The violence is part of the clashes that broke out in Juba on Sunday in an attempted a coup against President Salva Kiir.

At least ten politicians have been arrested in connection with the attempted coup. Mr Riek is suspected to have joined the rebels in Jonglei.

There were reports that the fighting was spreading to the Torit, the capital of southeastern Eastern Equatoria State.