UNMIS Urges the Parties to Diffuse Tensions in Abyei and Southern Kordofan State

6 June 2011

Khartoum — UNMIS is deeply concerned about the on-going security situation in Abyei and Southern Kordofan State, and calls on the parties to prevent any escalation of violence that could lead to new losses of civilian lives.

In the Abyei Area, looting is continuing despite Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) assurances that they would stop it. We urge the SAF to uphold its commitment and intervene to stop these criminal acts.

UNMIS also urges the SAF to immediately release all civilians that are still in their custody and grant unconditional humanitarian access to all parts of Abyei Area to verify whether civilians in need of care are still present, and provide them requisite protection.

UNMIS calls on the SAF to immediately stop its artillery fire from the vicinity of UNMIS compound. This artillery fire is a security threat for the UN presence, patrols and flights in Abyei and creates high risks for civilians who may be willing to return to their villages.

UNMIS is further concerned about the security incidents that took place on 5 June in Kadugli and Um Durein, Southern Kordofan State. We urge the parties to exercise maximum restraint in resolving their dispute and resume dialogue with a view to defusing tension.

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