Machar’s clique dismisses claims of giving in to the Sudanese army.

Dr. Riek Machar’s SPLA-IO has denied surrendering its men to the Sudanese army on the border after being beaten by the Kit-Gwang faction.

According to the SPLA IO spokesman under Machar, their soldiers have been directed by their high leadership to evacuate to Sudan territory in order to save more casualties.

According to media reports, at least six commanders and 300 troops loyal to Dr. Machar surrendered to the Sudanese army after escaping General Simon Gatwech Dual’s forces in Manyo County, Upper Nile state, on Sunday.

The action comes after more than 40 troops were slain in ongoing confrontations between the SPLA-IO opposing groups in Magenis on Sunday.

The movement of their soldiers to Sudanese territory, according to Lam Gabriel, the SPLM/A-IO spokesman in Juba, was carried out in compliance with Supreme Command directives and with the cooperation and knowledge of Sudanese authorities.

“Our men did not surrender; they were asked to relocate to Sudanese land because we did not want to move near the SSPDF or to the south,” Col. Lam said to Eye Radio.

“Our soldiers are now on Sudanese government land, and the Sudanese administration is aware of their presence.”

“I can state unequivocally that they have not surrendered; it was just directions, and they are carrying out our chairman’s command.”