JUBA, South Sudan — Fears have risen throughout South Sudan amid escalating violence that the country could descend further into chaos after one of its integral oil pipelines exported to international markets — passing through Sudan — reportedly suffered significant damage last month.

The pipeline ruptured occurred in early February in Sudan’s White Nile state, which is controlled by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces who are currently engaged in a power struggle with the Sudanese Army. The damage prompted the Dar Petroleum Oil Company to suspend loadings.

Oil is the nation’s most valuable product and accounts for about 90 percent of South Sudan’s revenue.

More on concerns about the ruptured oil pipeline’s impact on South Sudan’s economy.