South Sudan's army chief Gabriel Jok Riak has deplored security problems in Yei River State, saying the rising insecurity needs urgent solutions.

Speaking at a meeting of the Joint Defence Board in Juba on Saturday, General Jok said the state of security in Yei River State is worrying.

A quick intervention was necessary to curb the intensifying insecurity, he said.

The statement came after reports of clashes between government troops and rebel fighters loyal to General Thomas Cirillo in the state.

“NAS forces are destabilizing the security situation in the state, especially around Yei town,” Jok said. “The security situation in Yei River State is alarming.”

He further said several areas in the southern and northern parts of Yei town had been worst affectedly by rebel activities.

The military leader called on the international community to put pressure on Thomas Cirillo to accept peace.

Last week, the army threatened to take military action against NAS rebels if they do not end violence in Yei River State. But Suba Samuel, a spokesman of the NAS faction, denied attacks on government positions.