19 May 2015 - Dozens of children have been killed, raped, abducted and recruited in a series of attacks in Unity State over the last two weeks, UNICEF said in a press release today.

The UN children’s organization revealed that according to dozens of testimonies from people who have fled burning villages, children have been both the victims and perpetrators of recent violence in the state, with armed men and boys in military and civilian clothing responsible for the widespread destruction of life and property.

“Survivors reported to UNICEF staff that whole villages were burned to the ground by armed groups, while large numbers of girls and women were taken outside to be raped and killed – including children as young as seven,” the statement said.

It added that at least 19 boys, some as young as 10 years of age, and seven girls were killed, while others were mutilated or recruited to join the fighting and take care of stolen cattle.

“The deliberate targeting of children in these attacks is an outrage,” said UNICEF Country Representative Jonathan Veitch.

He noted that multiple witness reports are building a chilling picture of the ordeal children are suffering as fighting intensifies ahead of the rainy season.

“If children are to be protected from further harm, an immediate cessation of hostilities is urgently needed, together with full access for humanitarian workers,” said Mr. Veitch. “An urgent and thorough investigation is also required to identify and hold accountable those responsible for these latest atrocities against children.”

UNICEF called on the South Sudanese government and opposition forces to use all influence to protect children and immediately stop grave violations against children, including sexual violence, and to release all children from armed forces and associated group.

The statement revealed that an estimated 13,000 children have been recruited and are being used by all sides of the conflict, according to data verified by the UN.

“The majority of those who survived the recent attacks in South Sudan are women and small children,” the release said. “UNICEF and partners are providing psychosocial support to survivors and registering separated and unaccompanied children for family reunification.”

Fighting has been escalating in Unity and Upper Nile states in recent weeks, with violations against children occurring with frightening regularity.

UNICEF stressed that unconditional access for the UN is now critical to areas in Unity and Upper Nile States affected by recent violence so as to provide support and protection to women and children and to all civilians who may be injured, trapped or in hiding.