The governor of Bieh state, one of South Sudan’s newly created states, has said the general security situation is stable in the area, dispelling claims of attacks on rebel positions in Pieri area over the weekend.

Governor Moses Majok Gatluak told Radio Tamazuj on Monday that most of the Lou Nuer territories in the state are fully under control of government troops.” I am now in Yuai town and the security situation is generally calm. SPLA-IO forces are not present in greater Uror County,” he said.

“The claims that about six civilians were killed in Pieri following fighting are untrue. The statement made by the opposition is not true,” he said.

Separately, the top state official said the people of Bieh state are in dire need of food and water supply.  “These are the challenges facing our people. Also, we have challenges of health services,” he said.

Governor Majok urged international NGOs to assist the needy people in the state.

South Sudan’s armed opposition faction (SPLA-IO) led by rebel leader Riek Machar had accused government forces of launching fresh attacks on its positions in Pieri area on Saturday.