SOUTH SUDAN government forces launched an attack on a village in Mayendit county in southern Unity state yesterday — supposedly the first day of a new ceasefire — according to a rebel-appointed official.

Two other villages had been attacked on Saturday night just before the truce was due to start, according to John Riek, who co-ordinates relief activities in an opposition-held part of the state.

The troops descended on the villages, burning buildings and seizing livestock, he said — adding that he had had to hide in a swamp to save his own life.