A UN helicopter in South Sudan was attacked during an evacuation mission, resulting in the death of one UN personnel and several SSPDF soldiers. UNMISS expressed regret and called for an investigation. They urged all parties to cease violence and engage in dialogue to prevent security deterioration in the region.
On March 7, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that a UN helicopter came under heavy gunfire during an evacuation operation in Nasir County, resulting in the deaths of at least one UN personnel and multiple soldiers from the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF). The helicopter was attempting to rescue SSPDF soldiers who had been surrounded by the White Army armed group for days.
The attack led to the death of a crew member and left two others critically injured. Additionally, several SSPDF members, including an injured general, were killed during the extraction attempt, which UNMISS stated was executed upon requests from all involved parties.
UNMISS indicated that the evacuation was part of its broader initiative to avert further violence in Nasir and mitigate political disputes following recent clashes that had resulted in numerous casualties and civilian displacement.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and the UNMISS head, expressed sorrow over the fatalities, emphasizing that they occurred despite assurances of safe passage being granted.
The mission has called for an inquiry to ascertain accountability for the violence and urged all parties involved to cease hostilities. Furthermore, it highlighted the necessity for South Sudanese leaders to use dialogue to address and resolve underlying tensions swiftly.
In light of the events, UNMISS stressed the importance of adhering to ceasefire commitments to maintain the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Clashes between the SSPDF and the local Nuer White Army began on March 3, prompting unrest and subsequent military withdrawals from the area.
This unrest also led to the detainment of multiple senior army officers in Juba who were loyal to the opposition, impacting the stability of the region.
The violent incident involving a UN helicopter in South Sudan underscores the precarious security situation in the region. Despite efforts by UNMISS to facilitate an evacuation of besieged soldiers, the attack has prompted calls for accountability and a renewed commitment to dialogue among South Sudanese leaders. The need for sustained adherence to the ceasefire and peace agreements remains critical to prevent further instability and violence.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
