Two United Nations peacekeepers were killed and seven others injured when unidentified armed men ambushed a patrol in South Sudan’s Jonglei state on Monday, the UN mission said.
The attack occurred as the patrol was travelling to Pajut, according to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Those wounded included three peacekeepers, two members of the South Sudan National Police Service and two civilian staff.
UNMISS said it had deployed a Quick Reaction Force to secure the area and assist with the emergency response.
“Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable,” UNMISS head Anita Kiki Gbeho said.
The mission called for a prompt investigation, warning that attacks against UN peacekeepers could constitute war crimes under international law.
Jonglei is one of South Sudan’s most volatile regions, with UN patrols operating in areas affected by intercommunal violence, armed youth mobilisation and clashes involving government forces.
Leave a comment