Sudan / Statement attributable to the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Mr. Ali Al-Za'tari

KHARTOUM, Sudan, March 28, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Mr. Ali Al-Za'tari, has expressed his concern about the recent armed clashes in the Higlig area of South Kordofan which has left a large convoy of South Sudanese returnees stranded.

A large Government-organized convoy of approximately 1,700 people of South Sudanese origin returning to South Sudan was unable to continue beyond Higlig due to an upsurge of fighting in the area. Most of the convoy has returned to Karasana, north of Higlig, but there are reports that some separated passengers remain in Higlig and are in urgent need of food, water and shelter.

Mr Al-Za'tari said that, “there is an urgent need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all of the returnees in the convoy”. The United Nations is liaising with Government officials and has offered its assistance, wherever it may be required.