A group of South Sudanese soldiers stationed near the current frontline between South Sudan and Sudan near the town of Panakuach. Since January 2012 continued clashes along the border between the new nation of South Sudan, which became independent in July 2011, and its northern neighbour Sudan have flared up over the exact demarcation of the border. There are a number of oilfields along the border region which are claimed by both countries and have been a cause of tension since independence. Another point of contention is the fees South Sudan is supposed to pay for oil from its territory being piped to the coast along pipelines that run through Sudan. .