A UN helicopter in South Sudan was shot down, resulting in numerous fatalities, including a crew member and a general. The attack occurred during an evacuation amidst ongoing fighting between armed forces and the White Army militia. The incident raised concerns about potential war crimes, prompting President Kiir to urge calm as arrests of influential figures spark fears of renewed conflict.
A recent clash in South Sudan has resulted in considerable loss of life after a UN helicopter was shot down during an evacuation effort. The UN confirmed that one crew member perished, along with an injured South Sudanese general and several other troops, amid ongoing fighting in Upper Nile state. The UN suggested that this incident, which they described as an attack on their personnel, could be classified as a war crime.
President Salva Kiir reported that a second helicopter, which managed to take off post-attack, crash-landed, resulting in total fatalities among its occupants. However, the UN mission indicated that both helicopters had safely returned to Malakal. Reporting from Information Minister Michael Makuei noted that a total of twenty-seven South Sudanese individuals died in the unrest.
The unrest follows weeks of conflict which threaten a fragile peace deal between President Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar—whose previous disagreement ignited a civil war in 2013, claiming 400,000 lives and displacing 2.5 million people. Although a peace agreement was established in 2018, escalations have persisted in the region, particularly involving the armed forces and the White Army militia.
In a statement, Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN mission, condemned the recent violence against their personnel as “extremely abhorrent,” emphasizing the tragedy of their colleague’s death. He also extended condolences to the bereaved families and expressed regret over the loss of life during the evacuation effort.
President Kiir named the deceased army general as Gen Majur Dak, leader of the forces in the Nasir region. Following this incident, authorities have made arrests, sparking fears of a potential return to conflict in South Sudan. Kiir has urged the nation to “remain calm” and reassured citizens that his government will manage the ongoing crisis.
The recent attacks in South Sudan underscore a precarious situation that threatens the fragile peace between rival factions. With notable casualties, including military personnel and UN staff, international concern regarding potential war crimes has been raised. The South Sudanese government aims to maintain order, but rising tensions and conflicts could jeopardize existing peace efforts. Continuing vigilance is essential to prevent a return to widespread violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
