SPLA troops clashed with Colonel Gatluak Gai’s forces in Abiem-Nhom County, Unity state.
Mr. Gatluak took to the bush apparently because he was angered by the alleged elections rigging by the incumbent governor Taban Deng Gai in Unity state.
Mr. Gatluak’s rebellion on Friday was the third serious post elections incident following those of George Athor Deng and David Yauyau, both from Jonglei state.
SPLA spokesman Major General Kuol Deim Kuol blamed a group of militias sent from Khartoum for Mr. Gatluak’s attack.
He added that one SPLA soldier was injured in the head during the heavy gunfire exchange.
Mr. Deim explained the attack was organized to identifying the SPLA heavy weapons positions in Unity state.