(UNITY STATE / PANTHOU AREA) – South Sudan has taken temporary security control of the Heglig oil field, known locally as Panthou, after Sudanese forces withdrew from the area due to intensifying clashes between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Government officials confirmed the development on Thursday, saying the handover followed growing insecurity inside Sudan that pushed military units to retreat across the border.
The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services said troops from the Sudan Armed Forces 90 22 Brigade moved through Babonusa into Panakuach in Unity State before surrendering their infantry weapons to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces. The ministry said the retreat was carried out under pressure from fighting inside Sudan.
Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny said a tripartite understanding had been reached between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The arrangement allows South Sudan to take the main security role in Heglig for now in order to stabilise the border zone and protect oil facilities that are critical for the economies of both countries.
Ateny said President Salva Kiir acted quickly to calm the situation and prevent the clashes in Sudan from spreading into South Sudan. He said the government remained committed to diplomatic efforts and urged the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to stop fighting and take part in regional and international talks aimed at ending the conflict.
The minister warned that the humanitarian situation is worsening as more civilians flee the fighting and cross into South Sudan. Government agencies and security bodies have begun assessment work along the border and are putting in place measures to support displaced families and protect communities living near the conflict line.
The Ministry of Information asked the public to stay calm and wait for official communication as further details are confirmed. It also warned against unverified reports circulating online.
The move follows confirmation by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces on December 8 that Sudanese troops handed over their weapons after leaving the Heglig region, which lies along a sensitive border area and is one of the most valuable oil producing zones shared by the two countries.
A brief summary of the current arrangement is shown below:
| Party | Current Position in Heglig |
|---|---|
| South Sudan People’s Defence Forces | Main security responsibility |
| Sudan Armed Forces | Retreated and surrendered weapons |
| Rapid Support Forces | Party to temporary arrangement |
The government has not given a timeline for how long South Sudan will maintain control but said the aim is to keep the area secure until stability returns inside Sudan.
