The government is closely following a case of two South Sudanese pastors who have been detained in Sudan, an official has said.

According to media reports, pastors Yat Michael and Peter Yen Reith were arrested in December last year for allegedly inciting organized forces to complain, and insult religious beliefs.

The World Watch website says the charges call for death penalty.

The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mawien Makol, says the government is working with its Sudanese counterparts on the matter.

“They are subject to some accusations that need to be verified, that need to be handled, and that’s why we are laying low,” Said Amb Makol.

“The most important thing is that we are critically observing and seeing the situation and following through, so that whichever the outcome, our people will be informed.”

The Sudanese Embassy could not be reached for comment on the issue.