United Nations condemns attack on its base in South Sudan

Unknown assailants attacked a U.N. operating base in the South Sudanese town of Leer early Thursday, but were repelled by Ghanaian peacekeepers.

The head of the U.N. mission, David Shearer, says the attack showed “callous disregard” for civilians and aid workers.

No injuries were reported.

Shearer said the assailants’ identity was not clear and that the attack was launched from the direction of a nearby government-held town.

He said in a statement that all parties to the conflict should to respect the sanctity of U.N. premises.

Government officials were not immediately available for a comment and South Sudan’s main rebel force, SPLA-IO, denied any involvement.