UNMISS regrets deadly intercommunal clashes in Malakal
June 9, 2023 (JUBA) – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) expressed deep regret regarding a violent intercommunal clash that resulted in the loss of life and extensive property damage, exacerbating tensions and leading to the displacement of vulnerable groups, particularly women with children and the elderly.
The incident occurred at a civilian protection site within the UNMISS camp located north of Malakal town, the state’s administrative headquarters on Wednesday. However, conflicting accounts have emerged from authorities and witnesses regarding the cause of the incident.
A statement from the office of the Upper Nile governor, reported by Sudan Tribune on Thursday, mentioned ongoing investigations into what was described as an “unfortunate and unacceptable barbaric act by unruly individuals.”
The statement pledged to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the deadly clashes. No specific details regarding casualties were provided, but the statement called for calm as efforts were being made to restore law and order and enable normal activities to resume.
The number of civilians killed in intercommunal clashes at the Malakal camp in Upper Nile State had risen to at least 13, revising initial reports of three deaths on Thursday afternoon. Over 20 individuals were also reported injured, receiving treatment at the mission’s hospital.
The violence erupted between two displaced communities residing in the UN Protection of Civilians Site, triggered by a stabbing incident.
A subsequent statement from UNMISS on Thursday evening confirmed the death of at least 13 civilians and more than 20 others injured by 6 p.m. local time.
Alfred Orono Orono, Head of the UN Peacekeeping Mission’s Field Office in the state, emphasized the proactive response of peacekeepers stationed near the protection site, mentioning reinforced deployments to defuse the situation.
He added that military and police peacekeepers, in collaboration with the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, were conducting patrols within and around the site to restore confidence among the displaced community.
Orono Orono acknowledged the challenging task of maintaining peace and safety in South Sudan, highlighting the importance of partnerships with local authorities. He expressed gratitude for the support received and stressed the mission’s commitment to protecting civilians.
According to the International Organization for Migration’s biometric registration released in December 2022, Malakal’s Protection of Civilians Site housed approximately 37,032 displaced individuals.
UNMISS expressed regret for the loss of life and injuries sustained by civilians, calling for an immediate cessation of fighting to allow the United Nations to continue protecting vulnerable families and de-escalating tensions. The Mission has deployed additional military and police personnel in close collaboration with state authorities and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces to conduct confidence-building patrols within the Malakal PoC site and its perimeter.
(ST)