Source: UN High Commissioner for Refugees
Country: Sudan, South Sudan (Republic of)
Developments
Upper Nile state
- The general security situation remained very tense throughout the day with no incidents reported. An UNMISS patrol in the town reported that few local shops were open, and civilian movements limited.
- Regarding the boat accident reported yesterday on Nile River during an attempt to flee Malakal, there are unconfirmed reports that 127 bodies - mostly children - have been recovered from the accident scene is between Malakal and Lelo.
Central Equatoria
- NGO staff traveling from to Gorom refugee settlement near Juba to carry out health work and administer state primary school examinations were intercepted 4km from the refugee camp by armed uniformed soldiers. Their vehicle had UNHCR registration plates and the NGO’s logo. The soldiers took away mobile telephones, cash and other valuables, and then released the staff. The matter was reported to the authorities.
- In the evening sporadic fighting took place near Gorom refugee camp , allegedly between rival elements of SPLA, which has created nervousness among the refugee population which hitherto remained largely unaffected by hostilities.
Unity state
- Ten UNHCR staff are due to return to Yida on 15 January to strengthen UNHCR’s presence in Unity State, which will include coverage of IDP response activities in Bentiu. Four staff from the South Sudan Commission for Refugee Affairs will also resume work in Unity State.