UNMISS says violence is on an increase across South Sudan
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan is warning that community-based militias are continuing to attack civilians across the country creating insecurity and leading to loss of lives and property.
“Between January and March 2024, UNMISS documented 240 incidents of violence affecting 913 civilians nationwide, of which 468 were killed, 328 injured, 70 abducted and 47 subjected to conflict related sexual violence. This represents a 24 percent increase in the number of violent incidents (from 194 to 240) compared to the same period in 2023.” Reads part of a report released on Wednesday by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
UNMISS adds that inter/intra-communal violence accounted for 87% of victims of violence this year.
” Civilians in Warrap State suffered the highest rates of violence, accounting for 37 percent of total civilian victims nationwide, followed by Jonglei and Eastern Equatoria States.” Said UNMISS.
Meanwhile, the report indicates that fighting between former rival armed groups has reduced.
“Nationwide trends of violence involving the conventional parties to the conflict remained relatively low during the reporting period. However, military operations and activities involving Government security forces and organized armed groups and their respective proxy armed elements continue to place civilians at risk, predominantly in parts of Central Equatoria State.” UNMISS said.
