The SPLA said only one soldier was injured in a crash with troops loyal to renegade General George Athor in Colliet, Jonglei State.
Gen. Athor told Reuters yesterday that more than 50 SPLA soldiers and three of his men were killed in the fight on Thursday.
Colonel Malaak Ayuen Ajok told SCR News over the phone this afternoon that only one SPLA soldier was wounded in the clash.
Col. Malaak explained that a column of nine SPLA soldiers was on a reconnaissance mission when it clashed with Gen. Athor’s troops.
He added that it was a casual clash and that the SPLA soldiers were scouting the positions of the rebellious troops.
Col. Malaak said the SPLA did not receive orders from the government to attack Gen. Athor’s position.
Gen. Athor rebelled with more than 120 soldiers and some civilians last week after he lost the race for Jonglei governorship.