South Sudan: Gunmen attack peacekeeping force in Abyei June 24

Event

An unidentified armed group attacked a vehicle belonging to the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) on Wednesday, June 24, in the disputed territory. The assailants opened fire on the vehicle between Goli and Todach as it escorted refugee camp workers from Farouk to Abyei town. One soldier was critically wounded in the incident and another suffered minor injuries.

A heightened security presence is expected in the vicinity of the incident in the near term and further similar attacks are possible.

Context

Control over the Abyei region has been disputed since 2005 and intensified since South Sudan obtained independence from Sudan in 2011. The UNISFA peacekeeping force was deployed to Abyei in 2011 after deadly clashes between the Armed Forces of Sudan and South Sundanese troops, but tensions still persist in the region. Clashes regularly occur between the Ngok Dinka community and the Arab Misseriya nomads.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the vicinity of the attack, remain vigilant for potential militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.