Attacks on Peacekeepers ‘Unacceptable’ and Could Be War Crimes, UN Says
By Kidega Livingstone
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has strongly condemned the ambush of a peacekeeping convoy along the volatile border between Jonglei State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), calling such attacks “unacceptable” and warning they may amount to war crimes under international law.
The incident occurred on Sunday when an engineering contingent, escorted by military peacekeepers, was travelling from Akobo to Pibor. The convoy was stopped at what the mission described as an unauthorised roadblock before unidentified gunmen opened fire. Peacekeepers returned fire in self-defence, in line with their mandate and rules of engagement. No UN personnel were reported injured in the attack.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer-in-Charge of UNMISS, said the mission “strongly condemns” the ambush and urged local authorities to conduct a swift, thorough and impartial investigation to ensure those responsible are held to account. She described assaults on peacekeepers as “unacceptable” and reiterated that targeting United Nations personnel could constitute a war crime.
UNMISS regularly escorts humanitarian and technical teams across insecure routes to support civilian protection and infrastructure work. Sunday’s ambush highlights the continuing risks peacekeepers face in parts of South Sudan where armed groups and illegal checkpoints are common and state authority remains limited.
The mission’s statement underscores the importance of accountability and adherence to international law, particularly as peacekeepers work to stabilise conflict-affected areas and ensure safe delivery of humanitarian aid.
