Attack on UN helicopter resulted to killing of crew in South Sudan

By Blessing Chinagorom

A United Nations helicopter conducting an evacuation process in Nasir, in Upper Nile State, South Sudan came under fire on Friday, 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), including an injured General, were killed during the attempt by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to extract them from the area, which was made at the request of all parties.
According to the statement released by the Agency, the evacuation which 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 causing 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,” said the Special Representative of the Secretary -General and Head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom.

“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 Chief added.
While the mission called 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, does not deteriorate. It is vital that parties adhere to their commitment to uphold ceasefire and protect the integrity of Revitalized Peace Agreement”, the mission said.