UN “deeply” concerned about clashes in Upper Nile State
October 12, 2022 (JUBA) – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said is “deeply” concerned about the recent fighting between armed groups in Upper Nile State.
The mission, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said clashes in Fashoda County resulted in loss of lives, abduction of women and displacement of over 8,000 people.
“Our mission is providing protection and doing its utmost to facilitate the provision of humanitarian assistance to affected families, who are seeking sanctuary at the mission’s base in Kodok,” said Nicholas Haysom, the head of the UN mission.
He condemned the fighting and urged an immediate end to hostilities.
Haysom further appealed to local leaders to restore security in the area.
According to the head of UNMISS, efforts are underway to reach an agreement that will enable peacekeepers conduct patrols to defuse tensions and end fighting.
The UN mission’s statement called on armed groups to respect freedom of movement on the Nile River and its tributaries straddling Upper Nile and Jonglei states.
(ST)