Renewed fighting in Akobo has forced thousands of civilians to flee toward neighboring Ethiopia.

The clashes began early Tuesday when the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces advanced into the town and engaged fighters from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army‑in‑Opposition.

Local officials gave conflicting reports about who controls the town.

Former commissioner James Kueth Makuach said government forces had taken control and called on residents to return. But SPLA-IO officials said their fighters later pushed the government troops out after a counterattack.

The violence comes amid rising tensions in Jonglei State and growing fears for civilians living in the area.