The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) on Monday condemned the weekend attacks in the southern part of Abyei that resulted in a number of civilian deaths and injuries.
In a statement extended to Radio Tamazuj, UNISFA said several civilians were kidnapped, villages were burnt and herds of cattle were stolen.
The mission said, “The series of attacks by armed attackers on civilians, which took place on 3rd and 4th February in Malual Aleu, Banton, Awolnhom, Abathok, Majbong, Awal, and East of Rumamier, included the use of heavy weapons, such as rocket propelled grenades and mortars.”
The statement further said initial reports indicated that 23 people were killed and 17 others injured in the attacks, adding that UNISFA had intensified its patrols by land and air to deter further violence and protect civilians.
“UNISFA peacekeepers were also targeted during the violence, with an armored personnel carrier coming under heavy fire during an ambush. Ghanaian UN Peacekeepers at a base in Marial Achak were also fired upon before the attackers were repelled,” read the terse statement in part.
The violence follows a series of similar attacks by armed groups on 27 and 28 January, which resulted in significant numbers of civilian casualties, the loss of two UN peacekeepers, and widespread displacement.
“UNISFA peacekeepers are currently sheltering and providing basic support to more than 2,000 displaced people in its bases, including hundreds of children, pregnant women, elderly, and people with disabilities,” the statement added.
It further indicated that UNISFA strongly denounces the ongoing violence, which had escalated inter-communal tensions and threatened the fragile peace.
The mission also conveyed its sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and emphasized that the targeting of peacekeepers may constitute a war crime under International Law.
“UNISFA is making all efforts to restore calm, protect civilians, and engage with local authorities, community leaders, civil society, and other stakeholders to prevent retaliatory attacks. The mission urges the immediate cease of hostilities, respect of international humanitarian law, and protection of civilians. UNISFA calls on all stakeholders to cooperate in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring peace is restored in Abyei.”
The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) was deployed to the disputed territory of Abyei in June 2011 to protect civilians under the imminent threat of physical violence.