UN decries rise in abduction of civilians, children in Yei

The UN mission, in a statement issued on Friday, cited 12 such cases, affecting 134 individuals, including six children.

The statement said the abduction of children exposes them to various risks including possible recruitment and use in armed conflict; sexual and gender-based violence, trafficking; and other forms of exploitation.

“Children as well as adults in captivity must be released immediately and unconditionally. Such incidents not only go against international human rights and humanitarian law but also devastate communities, creating fear and uncertainty,” said Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS.

“We urge the Government of South Sudan to conduct immediate investigations and remind involved parties of their human rights obligation,” he added.

Haysom, also the Special Representative of the Secretary General called for collective action by all stakeholders, including the Government, to strengthen measures that prevent recurring abductions and bring perpetrators to justice swiftly.

Abductions remain an ongoing threat to security and peacebuilding efforts.

The UN said it is proactively engaging with relevant national, state, and local authorities to address the issue.

(ST)