South Sudan: Aid workers killed in Pieri (Jonglei state) May 16 /update 1

Event

Inter-communal violence in Pieri (Jonglei state) resulted in the deaths of three aid workers on Saturday, May 16. One of the victims was a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) staff member while the two others were employed by other humanitarian organizations. A UN patrol has been deployed to the town to survey the situation.

Further attacks are possible in the region over the near term.

Context

At least 287 people were killed on May 16 after gunmen from the Murle ethnic group carried out targeted attacks against members of the Lou Nuer community throughout Uror county (Jonglei state). The incidents occurred in the areas of Ghuourgaanwel, Gokgoak, Ganchat, and Pieri. At least 300 others were wounded in the attacks. Local authorities stated that the attacks may be linked to an incident in February when members of the Lou Nuer community stole cattle and abducted children from the Murle. President Salva Kiir has ordered security forces to provide protection to civilian communities within the state.

Advice

Due to the high threat of intercommunal conflict and violent crime, all travel to South Sudan should be subject to a thorough localized threat assessment and undertaken in coordination with a trusted security provider. Members are advised to subject all travel, particularly to remote and rural areas, to strict journey management protocols. Avoid travel at night, vary routines and maintain a heightened sense of situational awareness. Monitor local media sources to remain apprised of security-related developments and adhere to any directives issued by local authorities.