China's defense ministry has dismissed the allegation by a US-based group that Chinese peacekeepers abandoned their posts in South Sudan following the death of two Chinese soldiers earlier this year.

The ministry described the allegations as "malicious speculation." 

The US-based Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) said in a report published last week that Chinese peacekeepers with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) pulled out of a civilian protection zone in July after being attacked.

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The report claims that the withdrawal took place specifically on July 11, a day after a grenade exploded which killed two Chinese soldiers.

Refuting the report, Yang Yujun, a spokesman for China's Ministry of Defense said, "Chinese peacekeeping officers and soldiers remained at their posts, quickly organizing reinforcements and continuing to implement the mandate of UNMISS while rescuing wounded soldiers."

Yang added that United Nations is currently investigating the performance of peacekeeping forces in the troubled African country and making unwarranted accusations before the findings are irresponsible.

China condemned the attack that led to the death of two of its soldiers. The South Sudanese government has assured China that it would conduct an investigation into the incident and promised justice for the deceased soldiers. The dead bodies of two soldiers were flown back to China and were laid to rest with honor.

South Sudan Embroiled in Civil War   

South Sudan is currently hosting peacekeeping soldiers from several countries including China. The African nation has been completely ravaged by years of civil war. The civil strife has left thousands dead and thousands of people homeless.

The war is being fought between rival forces loyal to the current President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar. 

Tagschina, South Sudan, China and South Sudan, Chinese peacekeepers