Fatal Incident During UN Evacuation Mission in South Sudan

On March 7, a UN helicopter in South Sudan came under attack during an evacuation mission, resulting in the death of at least one UN personnel and several government soldiers. The evacuation aimed to rescue SSPDF soldiers besieged by the White Army. UNMISS condemned the violence and called for accountability and dialogue to prevent further unrest.

On March 7, it was reported that at least one United Nations (UN) personnel and several government soldiers were killed in an incident involving a UN helicopter in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, South Sudan. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) stated that the helicopter was engaged in an evacuation operation to rescue South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) soldiers besieged by the White Army armed group for four days.

The attack resulted in the death of one crew member, while two others sustained serious injuries. Furthermore, numerous SSPDF members, including an injured general, lost their lives during this UN-led extraction attempt, which was initiated at the request of all involved parties. UNMISS emphasized that this effort aimed to mitigate violence and alleviate political tensions following significant clashes and civilian displacements in the region.

Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of UNMISS, expressed sorrow over the fatalities, especially considering prior assurances of safe passage. He called for a thorough investigation to pinpoint and hold accountable those responsible for the violence. UNMISS is urging all factions to avoid further violence and imploring South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize dialogue and conflict resolution to prevent escalating insecurity.

Clashes ignited on March 3, when the SSPDF confronted local armed youth from the Nuer White Army, leading to the SSPDF’s withdrawal from Nasir. This turmoil has also brought about the detention of several senior army officers in the capital, aligning with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-in-Opposition, directed by First Vice President Riek Machar.

This tragic incident illustrates the precarious security situation in South Sudan, exacerbated by ongoing clashes between armed factions. The loss of life among UN personnel and soldiers highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the unrest. UNMISS’s call for accountability and dialogue underscores the importance of cooperative efforts to restore peace and protect civilians in the region.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz