The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) has strongly condemned an attack on two Ngok Dinka villages on Thursday, leaving nine people dead.
In a statement on Thursday, UNISFA’s acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Mehari Zewde Gebremariam, said the attack can contribute to renewed tension and violence in the area.
“UNISFA troops have been deployed at Miodol, Hadid and Shegeg general area, supported by aerial patrol, in an attempt to track down the armed group that carried out the attack. The troops have been put on high alert in the general area where the incident occurred,” the statement reads in part.
At least nine people, including a chief, were killed in the attacks whose motive is still unknown according to UNISFA.
General Mehari reiterated UNISFA’s commitment to ensure that Abyei is free of arms and armed groups, and completely deplores any act that will further escalate tension in the area.
“UNISFA also reiterates that any presence of armed groups within the Abyei box other than its troops is viewed by the mission as a violation of its mandate and will not hesitate to place responsibility on those engaged in such violations,” he said.
The oil-rich Abyei area inhabited by Misseriya Arab nomads in the north and Ngok Dinka people in the south is disputed between Sudan and South Sudan. Abyei is now under the administration of the UN interim security force.
