South Sudan: UN mission decries deadly attacks, works to calm tensions after ‘nothing but devastation’

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has condemned recent armed group attacks in Warrap state which reportedly left more than 60 civilians dead and 50 others injured. The near simultaneous attacks – which occurred on Sunday in two communities in Tonj North county – caused widespread displacement as well as the destruction and looting of property, including theft of large numbers of cattle. The acting head UNMISS Graham Maitland said intercommunal violence is causing immense harm to communities that are already vulnerable, and he warned of the risk of further revenge attacks. Assess and engageThe mission is sending a long-duration peacekeeping patrol to the impacted area. “Blue helmets” will assess the security situation, investigate human rights violations, and help deter further conflict. UNMISS is engaging intensively with officials at all levels to de-escalate tensions, calling on the authorities to strengthen security in the area and ensure accountability. Patrols in Upper NileMeanwhile, peacekeepers have also increased patrols in parts of eastern Upper Nile state, where people are returning to their villages following intense clashes between government and opposition armed g...