The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said fighting on the west bank of the River Nile in South Sudan’s Upper Nile has reached what the head of UNMISS, David Shearer, has described as “worrying proportions.”

In a statement seen by Radio Tamazuj today, UNMISS said what began with an exchange of fire between SPLA and Aguelek opposition forces, has expanded geographically. It added that military resupplies have since been observed arriving in the area.

“On 8 February, UNMISS received reports of hostilities between the government SPLA and opposition forces in Owachi and Tonga, Panyinkang County,” partly reads the statement.

The UN mission pointed out that military operations on the west bank of the Nile River are taking place in an area where people, predominantly from the Shilluk ethnic group live, forcing people out of their homes.

According to the statement, the town of Wau Shilluk town is now reported to be deserted and that humanitarian workers have been evacuated and aid is not being provided.

File photo: Aerial view of Malakal