UN peacekeepers in Abyei voice concern about presence of armed elements

March 1, 2023 (ABYEI) – United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) Wednesday expressed worry following the presence of armed elements in the southern part of Abyei where clashes took place a month ago.

At least 32 people were killed during intercommunal attacks and cattle rustling between Ngok Dinka and Twic Dinka on 5 and 27 January 2023. The tribal hostilities displaced thousands and negatively affected livelihoods.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the UNISFA said they monitored the movement of armed men in the southern part of the Abyei Box on 28 February 2023.

“While the armed elements remain visible, the mission is deeply worried that this latest development within the southern part of Abyei will further exacerbate the conflict in the area and cause untold suffering and humanitarian concerns for the civilians in the area,” said the mission.

On May 3, 2013, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee declared Abyei as a weapons-free area. Since the UN Security Council calls to observe this decision.

“UNISFA is against any form of unauthorized deployment within the Box,” said the statement adding that the mission deployed more peacekeepers in the Area to closely monitor the situation.

(ST)