A United Nations helicopter conducting an evacuation process in Nasir, in Upper Nile State in South Sudan has been attacked, resulting in the killing of a crew member and serious injuries to two others.
In addition, several members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) were killed during the attempt by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to extract them from the area.
Among the casualties was an injured General, and the evacuation was carried out at the request of all parties involved.
UNMISS, in a statement, confirmed that both UN helicopters landed safely in Malakal, Upper Nile state, on Friday.
The two injured crew are currently in a stable situation, receiving medical care.
The evacuation was part of UNMISS’ efforts to help prevent violence in Nasir and de-escalate political tensions, following recent clashes between the SSPDF and armed youth which caused significant casualties and civilian displacement.
“The attack on UNMISS personnel is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.
“We deeply regret the tragic loss of our colleague and express our sincere condolences to his loved ones,” the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom, said.
“We also regret the killing of those that we were attempting to extract, particularly when assurances of safe passage had been received.
“UNMISS urges an investigation to determine those responsible and hold them accountable.”
The mission is calling on all actors to refrain from further violence and for the country’s leaders to urgently intervene to resolve tensions through dialogue and ensure that the security situation in Nasir, and more broadly, did not deteriorate.
It is vital that parties adhere to their commitment to uphold the ceasefire and protect the integrity of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.
The attack comes amid ongoing instability in Upper Nile State, which has faced months of clashes and insecurity.
Thousands have been displaced, while humanitarian access remains difficult due to terrain and armed activity.
Violent clashes erupted in Nasir on February 14 between the SSPDF and armed youth, with heavy weapons reportedly used. According to UNMISS, the fighting led to casualties among both civilians as well as combatants.
An UNMISS patrol also came under fire during the clashes, leaving a peacekeeper injured due to mortar shelling.
