Scene of Aneet set on fire during an attack which killed dozens of people. (Photo: Social media).

The UN Mission in South Sudan said it strongly condemns the resurgence of deadly violence involving armed youth between Warrap State and Abyei Administrative Area, and appealed for peace among the neighboring communities.

On Monday morning, gunmen attacked Aneet town near the border between Warrap State and Abyei region, killing 12 people and injuring a dozen others.

The Spokesperson of Abyei administrative government Ajak Deng, also said an unspecified number went missing.

He however said the situation is calm, despite lingering tension.

In a statement on Friday, the Mission said it is gravely concerned about the hostilities, which started in February this year over the disputed border.

“The clashes have resulted in the loss of many lives, injuries to scores of people, the burning down of homes and properties, and the mass displacement of thousands of civilians on both sides,” read UNMISS statement.

Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Nicholas Haysom appealed to the local leaders from both sides to immediately end the conflict.

“We urge leaders and authorities from both communities in Abyei and in Warrap State to work expeditiously to put an end to these violent clashes, and also prevent any retaliatory attacks,” said Haysom.

“Any disputes over the border must be resolved by the appropriate national institutions, and order must be restored quickly to facilitate the free movement of people, goods, and humanitarian assistance,” he added.

The peacekeeping body also said it has deployed troops to patrol through parts of Twic county as the mission engages the authorities, youth and women leaders, as well as other leaders, to bring an end to these hostilities.