The government of Unity State says that Leer town was attacked repeatedly in recent days, claiming the attacks were repulsed. 

State Security Advisor John Malok told Radio Tamazuj today, “The rebels attacked our forces that were in Leer. Now they attacked our forces again. Three times actually in Leer.” 

He was not clear on the specific timing of the attacks, saying that the first attack was about two weeks ago, then again five days ago, then again more recently.

“In the rest of the state security is fine, there is no problem,” he said, also affirming that the Bentiu-Leer road was still open

The security official said also that there are even still some civilians in the town: “There were some who ran, but now they came back to the county (seat).”

Leer town was mostly destroyed during a government offensive in late January. Officials say the destruction occurred before their forces arrived in the area.

Much of the civilian population in Leer County is living in the bush or in outlying villages beyond the control of government forces. Aid organizations have warned that these people are lacking adequate shelter, food and clean drinking water. 

File photo