Yei  River , South Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) spokesperson Col. Lam Paul Gabriel confirmed clashes with the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Lasu and Libong  early Friday morning, Aug. 15, 2025.

Gabriel said a joint force of SPLA-IO and NAS-TC fighters launched an offensive at about 5 a.m., overrunning and capturing SSPDF bases in the two locations. The force seized weapons and equipment, including a Land Cruiser pickup mounted with a 14.5 mm heavy machine gun, a 120 mm mortar, a 12.7 mm machine gun, and multiple assault rifles.

At least 12 SSPDF soldiers were killed and several wounded, according to Gabriel. The joint force reported five fighters killed in the operation. He also acknowledged “many losses on both sides” in Yei River County.

In a separate incident in Nasir the same day, SPLA-IO forces intercepted SSPDF elements moving from Burebiey to Jikmiir, where they allegedly harassed and looted civilians. The SPLA-IO said its fighters cleared the area and confiscated the SSPDF’s weapons.

The SPLA-IO leadership urged civilians to stay away from military installations and convoys to avoid being caught in crossfire.

SSPDF  Spoke-person is yet to  comment on the  incidents