South Sudanese rebels loyal to former First Vice President Riek Machar have accused government troops of killing at 20 civilians in Yuai and Waat areas in Bieh State last month.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, the rebel-appointed governor of Bieh state, Koang Rambang, said the government forces committed atrocities against civilians and killed at least 20 people including women, children and the elderly in the recent attack on their areas in Yuai and Waat.

“Those civilians did not die in crossfire but the government forces targeted them.  In Yuai town, the government killed more than 17 civilians, including women and children.  In Waat, at least 13 people were killed,” he said.

Separately, the opposition official pointed out that more than 40,000 people fled from Waat and Yuai areas to Buong and Akobo areas, amid harsh humanitarian conditions.

Rambang called on aid agencies to help the needy people as soon as possible.