04 Jun 2021 | 11:31 AM UTC
South Sudan: Insecurity likely to persist nationwide through late June
Further clashes, kidnappings, and acts of banditry likely in South Sudan through late June following similar violence in recent weeks.
Event
Insecurity is likely to persist nationwide through at least late June following an uptick of violent incidents in recent weeks. Reports suggest that at least 234 people died since late April due to gun violence. The violence often revolves around communal tensions, as well as conflicts over access to water and grazing resources; armed bandits also contribute to the deteriorating security environment.
On June 1, armed individuals killed seven people in Pigi County, Jonglei State. Previously, the chief administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, Joshua Konyi, announced May 26 that 150 people were killed during clashes over a 10-day period, while more than 1000 houses were destroyed, and thousands of residents displaced. Konyi also said that the attackers kidnapped a total of 196 women and children. Local authorities attributed the violence to a youth group from the Gawar Nuer community. Separately, on May 26, unidentified assailants killed a foreign national and a South Sudanese soldier along the Juba-Rumbek road.
Tensions are likely to persist throughout the country in the coming days. Increased security measures, such as roadblocks, a curfew, and additional security checkpoints, are possible in the event of further violence. Such measures could prompt localized transport disruptions.
Context
Instability persists throughout the territory following the 2018 ceasefire agreement between the government and rebel groups that ended a civil war that left at least 380,000 people dead. Most western governments strongly advise against all travel to South Sudan except for the capital Juba.
Advice
Minimize nonessential movement as far as practically possible. Avoid all large gatherings due to the threat of violence. Plan for localized commercial and traffic disruptions. Seek updated information from trusted local sources on road conditions before traveling in affected areas. Leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure location away from government or security buildings if violence erupts nearby. Heed all instructions from security personnel.
