A United Nations helicopter conducting an evacuation operation in Nasir, Upper Nile State, came under attack today, resulting in the death of one crew member and serious injuries to two others.
In a Statement, the assault also claimed the lives of several members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), including an injured General, during the UNMISS-led effort to evacuate them from the area. This mission had been carried out at the request of all parties involved.
The evacuation was part of UNMISS’ broader efforts to prevent further violence in Nasir and ease rising political tensions. These tensions followed recent clashes between the SSPDF and armed youth, which led to significant casualties and forced many civilians to flee.
“The attack on UNMISS personnel is an appalling act and may amount to a war crime under international law,” said Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS. “We mourn the tragic loss of our colleague and extend our deepest condolences to their family and loved ones.”
Haysom also expressed regret over the deaths of those the mission was trying to evacuate, noting that assurances for safe passage had been received before the attack. “UNMISS calls for an immediate investigation into this attack, to identify those responsible and ensure they are held accountable.”
The mission has called on all parties to cease further violence and urged South Sudan’s leaders to take immediate action to resolve tensions through dialogue.
UNMISS emphasized the need for all parties to uphold the ceasefire and protect the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement to prevent the security situation in Nasir—and across the country—from further deteriorating