South Sudan’s Petroleum and Mining minister has confirmed that forces loyal to former Vice President Riak Machar were in full control of the oil fields in Unity state.
Stephen Dhieu Dau also said that workers did not properly shutdown pipes and that leakage was damaging oil facilities and the environment of the area.
Meanwhile there are conflicting reports coming out of Upper Nile State as to whether the oil fields there are still, firmly, held by government troops.
The Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) has confirmed that the capital city of Upper Nile State, Malakal, is not yet under their control.
The battle for their airport continues to rage in Malakal with fighting described as ongoing.
Oil prices have climbed above $99 today (Friday) as violence in South Sudan stoked concerns about the African nation's oil production.
Worries over instability in South Sudan have led some analysts to predict the contract may top $100 a barrel for the first time since mid-October.
China, which has significant oil interests in South Sudan, said it would send its special envoy for Africa to help bring about talks between President Salva Kiir and former Vice President Riak Machar.