UNMISS concerned over violent clashes in Central Equatoria State

October 14 2024 (JUBA) – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has expressed alarm over a series of violent clashes between armed actors in the country’s Central Equatoria state.

This follows a recent incident in which at least 24 people, including 19 civilians were killed.

The incidents reportedly involved attacks and counterattacks between former members of the National Salvation Front (NAS) and occurred in the Wonduruba and Ganji areas of the state.

“I am deeply concerned by these brutal acts and urgently call on the Government of South Sudan to conduct an immediate investigation to bring perpetrators to justice swiftly,” said Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the country and head of UNMISS.

He stressed that protection of civilians must remain paramount and respected at all times.

“There is no justification for the extrajudicial killing of civilians. International human rights law sets down clear rules, and all parties must abide by it,” stressed Haysom.

The UN mission, however, said it had in response to the latest violence intensified patrols across Central Equatoria state and is actively engaging with provincial and local authorities, as well as community leaders, to prevent further escalation and ensure the protection of civilians.

(ST)