At least six Bangladeshi peacekeepers were killed and eight others wounded on Saturday after a drone attack struck a United Nations base in the disputed Abyei region between Sudan and South Sudan, Bangladesh’s armed forces have confirmed.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the military said the attack was carried out by separatist armed groups targeting the Kadugali Logistics Base, which operates under the UN peacekeeping mission in Abyei. According to the army’s public relations division, the drone strike occurred between 3:40 p.m. and 3:50 p.m. local time.
Bangladesh, one of the world’s largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, has maintained a long-standing presence in the volatile border region, where tensions have persisted for years. Military authorities said efforts were ongoing to provide medical treatment to the wounded and conduct rescue operations for those affected by the attack.
The assault drew strong condemnation from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who described the incident as unjustifiable and potentially a war crime. In a statement posted on X, Guterres expressed condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeepers and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also stressed that all parties are obligated under international law to protect UN personnel and civilians.
“Attacks against UN peacekeepers like this one are unjustifiable & may constitute war crimes. I remind everyone of their obligation to protect UN personnel & civilians,” he said.
Abyei has remained a flashpoint since South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 following decades of civil war. Despite the secession, the two countries failed to reach an agreement on the status of several contested areas, including Abyei, which is claimed by both sides and has frequently witnessed outbreaks of violence.
The latest attack underscores the growing security risks faced by peacekeepers operating in the region, as the UN continues efforts to stabilise the area and prevent further escalation between Sudan and South Sudan.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on:
