South Sudan’s grenade explosion kills six, injures 12 others

January 11, 2016 (JUBA) – A hand grenade explosion in South Sudan’s oil-producing Upper Nile state killed six people and wounded 12, the United Nations said on Monday.

A UN spokesperson said a hand grenade accidentally detonated in a pickup truck carrying South Sudan army (SPLA) soldiers and civilians in the vicinity of the protection of civilians’ site for its mission in South Sudan.

“Twelve wounded were taken to the UN Mission’s Level II clinic and MSF hospital for treatment. A UN Mine Action staff member who was detained by authorities at the scene for allegedly taking photographs has been released,” said Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN secretary general.

Meanwhile, an unexpected fire outbreak in the protection of civilians’ site in the Upper Nile state capital, Malakal reportedly destroyed the shelters of about 1,000 camp residents.

“A baby also reportedly died in the incident, and eight people suffered minor injuries, mostly associated with smoke inhalation,” said Dujarric.

“The cause of the fire is currently being investigated”, he added.

Presently, the UN mission (UNMISS) is reportedly protecting some 48,000 internally displaced persons in the Upper Nile capital alone, and 194,000 across South Sudan.

(ST)