The army has temporarily closed water transport services through the River Nile from Jonglei to Upper Nile state because of insecurity, SPLA spokesperson has announced.

Colonel Philip Aguer says the move aims at preventing further attacks on SPLA territories by opposition forces on barges.

“Nile River has not been safe for the last two months. The rebellion has been using barges to attack SPLA bases, and there has been exchange of gunfire sometimes along the river,” Col Aguer said.

“Now, for anybody who wants to use the river, will have to secure him or herself; it is only security reasons. When the security is assured, then we will open the river transport.”

Reports by humanitarian organizations indicate that the three states are the most affected by fighting between the SPLA and Opposition forces, with Unity the worst affected in recent months.

The organizations use the Nile River as a cheap means to transport relief assistance to the people affected by the violence in those states.