Synopsis
The UNHCR has reported a rapid escalation of violence in South Sudan's Nasir and Ulang regions, leading to over 10,000 individuals fleeing to Ethiopia. The organization has raised concerns over the alarming increase in displaced populations and the urgent need for resources to assist them.Key Takeaways
- Over 10,000 people have fled to Ethiopia due to violence in South Sudan.
- UNHCR is monitoring and assisting displaced individuals.
- Fighting intensified in Nasir, leading to casualties.
- Local authorities face challenges in managing the influx of refugees.
- Immediate assistance is required to support the displaced populations.
Juba, March 14 (NationPress) The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) announced that violence in the northern regions of South Sudan, particularly in Nasir and Ulang, has sharply escalated, compelling over 10,000 individuals to seek refuge in neighboring Ethiopia.
As of Monday, the number of refugees crossing into Ethiopia's Gambella Region has risen to more than 10,000, a significant increase from 6,900 reported just days earlier on March 6, according to a statement released by UNHCR on Wednesday evening.
"The figures are climbing at a concerning pace, and local authorities are actively monitoring and assisting the displaced populations, who are scattered across various communities, particularly in Burbiey and Matar," the agency stated.
The conflict in Nasir, a crucial town, intensified following March 3, resulting in the apprehension of high-ranking officials from the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition, headed by First Vice President Riek Machar.
Reports indicate that over 20 individuals have lost their lives, with many others sustaining injuries near the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, specifically on the outskirts of Nasir.
On March 7, a general, along with numerous soldiers from the South Sudan People's Defense Forces, and one UN staff member, were killed when the White Army, a militia allied with the opposition, opened fire as they attempted to board a UN helicopter during an evacuation operation in Nasir, as reported by Xinhua.
According to UNHCR, the violence that erupted in mid-February has displaced tens of thousands within South Sudan, with 50,000 newly displaced in Nasir and 34,000 in Ulang.
The majority of the new arrivals in Ethiopia have entered through Wanthoa, traveling through Burbiey to Matar. Many are finding refuge within local communities, while others are residing in temporary shelters made from plastic sheeting, as noted by UNHCR.
Andrew Mbogori, UNHCR's country representative in Ethiopia, emphasized the urgent need for additional resources to address the rising demands of the displaced populations. "The capacity to absorb these individuals in border areas is severely strained, and local authorities are encountering substantial challenges in managing the crisis. The numbers are anticipated to continue escalating, intensifying the need for immediate assistance," Mbogori stated.
UNHCR reported that its teams have conducted a risk assessment, evaluating various scenarios, and are taking proactive measures on the ground.
