Forces loyal to militia leader George Athor have threatened to attack Ayod and Doup Padiet in Jonglei state, a member of Jonglei state Legislative Assembly said.
Speaking to Bakhita Radio over the phone from Bor, MP Nelson Kwan said forces loyal to Mr. Athor have gathered at Payam Pajek Two near Ayod and other forces in Pan Kor.He added that residents of Ayod town including women and children were evacuated from the area for fear of a possible attack by the rebels.
Mr. Kwan said local police forces are not enough to repel the potential attack expected within hours.
SPLA spokesperson Colonel Philip Aguer admitted that there were unconfirmed rumours about the attack but he denied that it is true saying that Mr. Athor does not have forces capable to launch an attack on the SPLA position in Jonglei.
Col. Aguer said the SPLA is taking the rumour seriously and is trying to stabilize the security situation to ensure the local population and the NGOs that the army is in control of the situation in Jonglei state.