UNISFA statement on killings in Abyei town

Abyei, 15 November 2024 - The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) strongly condemns the recent killings in Abyei town which have resulted in the deaths of five people including a member of the Community Protection Committee (CPC). We express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery for the injured. UNISFA remains committed to protecting civilians and upholding the rule of law and has rescued four youth who had been detained in an unauthorised cell within Gombial area on suspicion of involvement in the killing of the CPC member on 7 November. They have since been transferred to the CPC Detention Centre.The mission, in coordination with the CPC, has intensified security measures in Abyei town and surrounding areas with the deployment of additional peacekeepers at the CPC Detention Centre. UNISFA is also working closely with stakeholders to prevent an escalation and restore calm in the area.UNISFA urges all stakeholders, including the Juba-appointed administration, traditional leaders, women and youth groups to promote dialogue to deter further violence and calls on the relevant authorities to conduct a swift investigation into the attacks and to hold the perpetrators accountable.