Note to Correspondents: on the attack on UNISFA base in Kadugli

We wish to update you regarding the horrific drone attacks targeting the UN peacekeeping logistics base in Kadugli, South Kordofan, on 13 December, which resulted in the killing of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injury of nine others while on duty with the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).  

This morning a solemn ceremony was held at the Mission headquarters in Abyei to honour the six peacekeepers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Their remains are being escorted back to Bangladesh.

Their sacrifice for peace will never be forgotten. The entire UNISFA family stands in grief with the families of the fallen peacekeepers and the Government and people of Bangladesh.

The injured peacekeepers, who were evacuated from Kadugli to Abyei on 13 December, are being treated at UNISFA’s hospital in Abyei. The Mission’s top priority is to do everything possible to provide appropriate medical care for the injured.

UNISFA strongly condemns the horrific attack on its peacekeepers. The Mission offers its most sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and the Bangladeshi government, and wishes swift and complete recovery for those injured. 

The Mission has taken all the necessary steps to protect its personnel and facilities, by reinforcing protection measures at the Kadugli logistics base to ensure the safety of its personnel and it is closely coordinating with relevant stakeholders to assess the situation.

The Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Robert Yaw Affram, visited Kadugli today to assess the situation and to engage with the peacekeepers on the ground and other relevant parties.

UNISFA reiterates the Secretary General’s message over the weekend that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law and that those responsible will be held accountable.