Jonglei militiamen commonly known as the White Army. (File)

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan has warned of threats of mass attacks following a report of the mobilization of armed youth in the Greater Jonglei area.

In a press release sent to the Eye Radio on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, the UN says such mobilizations could possibly result in violent attacks that can gravely impact the civilian population.

“The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is deeply concerned about the reported mobilization of armed Nuer youth in the Greater Jonglei area. Such mobilizations have the potential to trigger violent attacks that can gravely impact the civilian population,” said statement.

The UN Mission mentioned that any such upsurge of conflict will undermine recent peace gains achieved between leaders of Jonglei and the Greater Pibor Administrative area.

It further revealed that similar incidents in the past have resulted in the loss of lives, abduction of women and children, displacement of thousands of civilians, and destruction of property.

The Mission appreciates proactive engagements by the Government of the Republic of South Sudan with involved youth leaders to de-escalate hostilities and restore calm.

According to UNMISS, it will continue to deploy all available resources and make every effort to ensure the safety and security of affected populations.

UNMISS calls on leaders of the Lou Nuer and Murle communities to exert positive and constructive influences on their youth groups, encouraging them to embrace dialogue and refrain from using violence as a means of resolving grievances

The Mission urges community leaders to ensure the release of previously abducted women and children, and the return of looted cattle to their rightful owners, to foster reconciliation and respect for fundamental human rights.

UNMISS says it stands ready to support authorities and respective communities in reducing tensions through dialogue and other peaceful means.