UN peacekeeper killed in deadly Abyei attacks

ABYEI – The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) reported on Saturday that at least one of its peacekeepers, identified as a Ghanaian national, lost his life during an attack on its base in Abyei.

This incident followed multiple attacks by suspected armed youth from neighboring Warrap State in various areas of Abyei, including a market within Abyei town. At least 43 people have been confirmed dead as a result of those attacks.

UNISFA, in a statement, strongly condemned the attacks and confirmed the death of a Ghanaian peacekeeper.

The mission expressed deep concern about the intercommunal clashes in Nyinkuac, Majbong, and Khadian areas, resulting in casualties and necessitating the evacuation of civilians to UNISFA bases for safety.

“The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) strongly condemns a series of armed attacks that took place at 4:45 PM on January 27, 2024, in the Abyei Area, which resulted in civilian casualties as well as the death of a United Nations peacekeeper from Ghana,” the statement said.

“The Mission confirms that the intercommunal clashes that took place in the Nyinkuac, Majbong, and Khadian areas led to casualties and the evacuation of civilians to UNISFA bases to provide safety for those caught up in the violence. Efforts are underway to verify the number of those killed, injured, and displaced in the violence,” it added.

The statement revealed the attack launched on its base by an armed group it didn’t name, but said it repelled the attack.

“In addition, the UNISFA base in Agok came under attack by an armed group. The mission repelled the attack, but tragically a Ghanaian peacekeeper was killed during the incident,” it said.

“The mission strongly condemns the violence and extends its profound condolences to the families of the civilians who lost their lives as well as the fallen peacekeeper, who gave his life in the service of the people of Abyei. The mission also wishes all of those who were injured in the attacks a speedy and full recovery,” it added.

The UN mission further reaffirmed “its commitment to carrying out its mandate to provide proactive and robust protection of civilians as well as support to all efforts to secure peace and security in its area of operations” and called for “a swift and thorough investigation into the attacks.”