UNISFA Condemns the early morning attack on Ngok Dinka village.

Abyei, 03 January 2022 – An armed Misseriya group yesterday launched an early morning attack on the Ngok Dinka village of Miodol, 29 kilometres north-east of Abyei town, killing five persons and injuring one other (all Ngok Dinkas). One of the attacking Misseriya armed group also lost his life in the attack. His body was found approximately 8 km away from incident site in the Hadid area.

The attack was coordinated by approximately 70 well-armed herders from the Misseriya community but was however effectively contained due to the vigilance and swift action of UNISFA troops on the ground.

A thorough search launched by UNISFA troops led to the apprehension of 11 well-armed herders who were hiding in the nearby areas. A total of 06 AK-47 and 03 Machine Guns were recovered from the suspected culprits. Two more suspects were apprehended in the Northern sector area of Shegeg. UNISFA troops are currently patrolling the area to locate the remaining attackers and prevent any further attacks.

An investigation has been initiated to uncover the circumstances that led to the attack. Meanwhile, troop presence has been enhanced in the Marial Achak area and area domination patrols are being conducted in Shegeg and Therpadar areas to block and seize potential armed groups.

UNISFA’s acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Kefyalew Amde Tessema, has strongly condemned the attack, saying it can only contribute to the tension and chances of renewed violence in the area. General Tessema calls on all stakeholders to embrace UNISFA’s peace initiative as a means of easing tension in the area, assuring that UNISFA is fully committed to the safety and security of the people in Abyei area and will continue to prioritize the protection of civilians, in line with its mandate.

UNISFA also reiterates that any presence of armed groups within the Abyei box other than its own 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.