Violent clashes along the Sudan-South Sudan border near Abyei have resulted in the loss of 75 lives over the past fortnight, according to the UN representative in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom.
The clashes involve conflict between rival communities, primarily the Ngok and Twic groups, vying for resources in the disputed region.
Haysom has urged the government to investigate these incidents and work toward reducing escalating tensions. He also appealed to community leaders, emphasizing the futility of resorting to violence as a means of resolution.
Recent allegations implicated the South Sudan army in coordinating attacks alongside armed youth from opposing factions, although these accusations were refuted by the military.
In response to the escalating situation, the embassies of Norway, the UK, and the US jointly urged the South Sudan government to withdraw its troops from Abyei to prevent further violence.
The contested area of Abyei, recognized for its oil-rich reserves, has been claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan, with temporary administrative arrangements established in a 2011 agreement.
However, human rights activists have accused both sides of violating this agreement.
Presently, Abyei remains under the protection of UN peacekeeping troops amid the ongoing volatility in the region.
