More than 100 people have been killed in fighting in South Sudan this week after rebels attacked the army, the BBC reported.
The clashes come as the region prepares for independence from the north following last month's referendum, in which 99 percent of the voters said they wanted to secede.
Reports say at least 39 civilians were among those killed in fighting between troops loyal to former Sudan People's Liberation Army Lt. Gen. George Athor and Southern Sudan's army.
South Sudan will become the world's newest independent state and Africa's 53rd state on July 9.
MOSCOW, February 12 (RIA Novosti)
