UNISFA Force in Abyei. (File photo).

The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei has raised concern over clashes between SPLA-IO Factions in Abu Qussa/Wunkur and Tonga area.

The clashes occurred at Abu Qussa/Wunkur site which was marked as a vital area in the implementation of the Joint Border Verification Monitoring Mechanism team between the two countries.

The site is being used to facilitate effective monitoring, verification, and investigation of the Safe De-militarized Border Zone.

In September 2012, Sudan and South Sudan agreed to establish the Safe De-militarized Border Zone that would run 10 kilometers along either side of a center line.

However, in a letter addressed to the South Sudan Ministry of Foreign Affairs dated 19 September, the UNISFA stated that a series of clashes between factions of SPLA-IO has led to a deterioration in security and the displacement of the community.

UNISFA says the fighting and the absence of South Sudan National Monitors also affected the work of the Joint Border Verification Monitoring Mechanism team site at Abu Qussa/Wunkur.

It said the clashes between the SPLA-IO factions at Abu Qussa/Wunkur and Tonga area have resulted in the displacement of about 100 people to UNISFA and JBVMM sites.

According to UNISFA, their medical team treated and offered medical assistance to the wounded but could not provide food to them as humanitarian agencies are operating in the area.

UNISFA informed the South Sudan government that the fighting is posing threat to Joint Border Verification Monitoring and Mechanism activities in the area.

“UNISFA/JBVMM calls on the government of South Sudan to urgently engage with relevant authorities, the SPLA-IO, and its leadership, and Tonga and Abu Qussa/Wunkur communities with a view to restoring peace to the Abu Qussa/Wunkur and Tonga areas,” the statement partially read.

In a response letter dated 26th September seen by Eye Radio, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it forwarded UNSIFA concerns to the Presidential Advisor on Security Affairs Tut Gatluak Manime.

The office of Tut Gatluak is yet to respond to the compliments by the UNISFA.
Eye Radio’s efforts to get a comment from the Presidential Advisor on Security Affairs were unsuccessful.