South Sudanese rebels have accused government forces of starting heavy fighting in the northern part of Upper Nile state. The accusation comes in response to government finger-pointing for the shelling of the city that took place on Friday.

Captain Malith Koang Riaw, opposition spokesperson for division 7, told Radio Tamazuj on Friday that the SPLA-Juba launched morning attacks shelling their position at 5:00 a.m., prompting them to retaliate with counter-attacks.

"This morning at Ghabat, Mustakbel, Bushara and Wadakona town were under heavy attacks by Juba faction. This is a clear violation by the government forces showing that they are not interested on peace talks," he said by phone on Friday.

He denied allegations that opposition was responsible for the fighting. "We have never taken any step to attack government position, but they are the ones who are responsible for several attempts of violations of ceasefire agreements," he told Radio Tamazuj.

Later, another source said SPLA-Juba troops crossed the Nile to attack Wadakona. Details are not yet available.

Update, 17:00 Juba time: Government and rebel sources both confirm that government troops have taken control of Wadakona after fighting. A rebel official told Radio Tamazuj the government troops took over the area after their forces withdrew.