Aerial view of Nyirol County. (Photo: Courtesy).

Civil society groups in Jonglei State have condemned the reported killing of 26 civilians, including 11 children and 10 women, during an airstrike yesterday in Lankien town of Nyirol County.

In a statement extended to Eye Radio newsroom, the Jonglei State Civil Network said the bombardment displaced civilians from their homes in Lankien and surrounding villages.

The group alleged that the airstrikes were carried out by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and that civilian locations were targeted.

The SSPDF has not responded to the allegations.

“Civilians have, as a result disserted Lankien nearby areas in fear of continued bombardments. They need medical supplies, food and non-food assistance. We are calling on the Government of Jonglei State to conduct more assessment and avail this support to the people affected in the County,” read the statement in part.

The reported attack followed intense clashes between the SSPDF and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA-IO) that erupted on the eve of Christmas in Waat town of Nyirol County.

The civil society group called on parties to the conflict to avoid civilian areas and appealed for urgent relief assistance for displaced people.

“We understand that a protracted conflict has been ongoing between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO in various places within Jonglei State. But, why are civilians involved in this conflict that the rivals have refused to settle amicably? We demand explanation to this unfortunate unfolding from the Government of Jonglei State and further call for accountability,” the statement added.

It also demanded accountability for civilian victims affected by the fighting.