The United Nations has condemned the deployment of South Sudanese forces in the disputed Abyei region between Sudan and South Sudan.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the area warned that the deployment of forces in southern Abyei would cause “untold suffering and humanitarian problems” for the civilian population there.
The mission, known as the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), said the deployment came after the resumption of hostilities in and around Abyei and called on both sides to cease hostilities and “allow the political process to resolve the protracted crisis.”
The mission stated that “UNISFA opposes any form of unauthorized deployment” in Abyei.
No combat details were added in the mission statement. However, local media reported that there had been recent clashes between the Nuer and Ngok Dinka tribes in the area late last month over cattle rustling. The Sudan Tribune news website, citing local authorities, said at least 18 people were killed and nine were injured.
The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei said it had reinforced peacekeeping forces in the area and was “monitoring the situation closely”.
Source: “AB”
