This file photo shows South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) troops at the Rajap Police Academy in Juba, capital of South Sudan, April 26, 2019.(Photo: Xinhua)

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Saturday said it was deeply concerned about the violence in Upper Nile State in South Sudan.

The UN mission said the fighting in Fashoda County between Shilluk armed youth and Nuer elements, is impacting the lives of many civilians, with reports of further displacements into Malakal and Kodok towns, where the situation remains tense and volatile.

"Tensions and sporadic violence between different groups that started in these areas in August 2022 have resulted in the displacement of thousands of people, as well as the harassment and killings of others, and the destruction of property," the UNMISS said in a statement issued in Juba, capital of South Sudan.

The UNMISS called on the government authorities, key community leaders, and elders from both Shilluk and Nuer groups, in Jonglei and Upper Nile states, to use their influence to stop the brutal violence and prevent further suffering of civilians. It further urged the South Sudan People's Defence Forces based in Kodok town to intervene urgently to de-escalate the violence.

The Mission said it will continue to safeguard humanitarian access, establish temporary operating bases, and intensify patrols in hot spot areas to deter violence.

The UNMISS previously said that the Upper Nile and Warrap States were most affected by the violence.

Xinhua