The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Tuesday condemned the Sunday attack in the Baidit area of Bor County in Jonglei State which left more than 30 people dead.

In a statement to newsrooms, UNMISS called on authorities to take immediate measures to avoid further escalation of violence on innocent civilians.

On Sunday, suspected armed youth from Pibor attacked the Baidit area. About 32 people were killed, 26 were wounded, several houses were torched and many were displaced according to local officials.

"UNMISS is deeply concerned over recent reports of the attack in Baidit, Jonglei State alleged to have been carried out by armed Murle elements resulting in civilian casualties and temporary displacements," the statement read. "UNMISS strongly condemns any attack on civilians and urges groups and individuals to take immediate action to avoid further escalations that will endanger vulnerable people. The Mission further calls on authorities to carry out timely investigations and that the perpetrators be held accountable." 

UNMISS said it remains committed to supporting the government of South Sudan, whose primary role is to protect its citizens, to ensure the protection of civilians, and to build durable peace, including through the implementation of the 2018 peace deal. 

"All efforts must be made to restore calm, refrain from engaging in further violence and promote peace and reconciliation," UNMISS further said. " Any surge in subnational violence will have a devastating effect on communities that have already been impacted by flooding, the COVID-19 pandemic, and recurring conflict."