Heavy fighting was taking place in Malakal during the night involving Joint Integrated Unit (JIU) troops from North and South Sudan armies.
A Church source told SCR News via mobile telephone that heavy shooting was heard from Hai Malakia where JIU forces have their headquarters.The shooting stopped in mid-morning.
The same source added that many residents fled Malakia since the shooting started.
SPLA troops were deployed around Malakal to keep watch.
Witnesses say a number of dead and wounded soldiers were taken to Malakal Hospital.
Our source said t the fighting took place because JIU troops belonging to North and South Sudan armies did not agree on how to share their heavy armament when the Unit dissolves before independence.
SCR News was unable to confirm the news with the SPLA spokesperson so far due to connection problems.