The UN Mission in South Sudan has confirmed that at least 2,500 people fled the violence which erupted in South Sudan’s Eastern town of Pibor over the weekend.

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)  said fighting erupted in Pibor market between the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) and unidentified armed elements .

UN spokesperson Eduardo Del Buey told a news briefing in New York that at least the victims are are being sheltered by the UN .

“UNMISS remains committed to protecting civilians, but underscores that the Government of South Sudan is primarily responsible for the maintenance of security and the protection of civilians,” said Mr. Del Buey.

The Mission reiterated  its call to all parties in Pibor to avoid further violence and urged  the authorities to take the necessary measures to ensure security.”

The  20th AU  summit in Addis -Ababa which ended on Monday called for  joint efforts by African countries to end conflicts  in African countries including the on going fights in Sudan,DRC Mali among others.