South Sudan: Three UNICEF workers abducted July 6

Event

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) announced on Tuesday, July 11, that three of its local employees had been abducted last week in the city of Mathiang, where they were based.  The abduction reportedly occurred following heavy fighting in the area on July 6. Further details were not immediately available.

Context

Cases of kidnappings have been on the rise in South Sudan since March 2017, particularly against oil and humanitarian workers. In March, two Indian engineers were abducted, as well as eight local employees of an American NGO and four employees in the oil sector. All were released a few days later.

Advice

Due to this and other security concerns, most Western governments advise against nonessential travel to South Sudan. If travel is necessary, ensure that proper security protocols are in place and maintain a low profile at all times as criminals may target foreigners due to their perceived affluence. Be particularly vigilant after dusk and avoid traveling by foot after nightfall. Drive with windows closed, doors locked, and all personal possessions stored out of sight.

Security conditions remain precarious in South Sudan. Certain regions should be avoided entirely, including the states of Unity and Upper Nile, the north of Warrap state, parts of Eastern and Central Equatoria states, and areas on the border with the Central African Republic, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.