The controversy arose after a video emerged online, claiming to show UNISFA peacekeepers engaging with RSF members in Abyei. 

The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) has denied allegations that its peacekeepers are engaging with Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Abyei Area.

This came after the allegations surfaced in a video circulating online, and the mission has refuted the claims stressing its commitment to neutrality in the region.

In a press statement issued on Thursday by the UNISFA spokesperson, Antonette Miday, said there has been no interaction between its troops and the RSF in the Abyei Area as claimed in the video. 

“These reports are completely false and misleading,” Miday said.

 “UNISFA’s troops have not encountered any RSF elements within the Abyei Area, and we are deeply concerned about the potential harm these unfounded claims could cause to the Mission’s impartiality.”

The controversy arose after a video emerged, claiming to show UNISFA peacekeepers engaging with RSF members in Abyei.

However, UNISFA stated that the incident in question took place on December 9, far from the Abyei Area. 

According to the mission’s spokespreson, a UNISFA logistics convoy, traveling from Kadugli Logistics Base to Tishwin, was temporarily stopped by RSF personnel near Kharasana, about 155 kilometers from Kadugli, the headquarters of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism.

The RSF requested clearance for the convoy’s passage, but the convoy commander explained UNISFA’s mandate and the mission’s purpose.

“The situation was resolved peacefully, and within an hour, the convoy was allowed to continue its journey,” Miday continued.

She said the convoy successfully reached its destination at 2200 hours without any escalation or further incident. 

However, she said further investigations are being conducted to clarify any remaining details of the event.

“We will continue to work with all relevant parties to fulfill our mandate and ensure peace in the region.”

The mission urged the public to disregard the misleading video and await the final findings of the ongoing investigation, reaffirming its commitment to impartiality and its mandate to maintain peace and security in the Abyei Area.

“UNISFA’s troops have not encountered any RSF elements within the Abyei Area, and we are deeply concerned about the potential harm these unfounded claims,” UNISFA spokesperson, Antonette Miday. By Aguok Chok, The City Review