The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have reiterated the country’s neutrality in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, while tightening security around the vital Heglig oil fields amid rising tensions along the border.

Lieutenant General Johnson Olony, the SSPDF Chief Assistant for Mobilization and Disarmament, said South Sudan will not take sides in the Sudanese war but remains committed to safeguarding its territorial integrity and key national assets. He stated that forces have been placed on high alert to prevent any incursions or instability spilling over from the conflict.

Gen. Olony further revealed that SSPDF troops have officially disarmed members of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) who crossed into South Sudanese territory. He said the SAF personnel will be hosted on humanitarian grounds and relocated to safer areas within the country while awaiting conditions that allow for their eventual return to Sudan.

Meanwhile, SSPDF Chief of Staff, Gen. Dr. Paul Nang, is currently in Ruweng Administrative Area overseeing security operations and the handling of SAF soldiers who entered the region.

Authorities say these measures are aimed at ensuring stability along the tense border zone while maintaining South Sudan’s neutral stance in the neighboring conflict.