UNAMID deeply concerned over violence in Kutum

EL FASHER (DARFUR), Sudan, September 10, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- UNAMID's leadership expresses its deep concern over a recent resumption of violence in Kutum, North Darfur, resulting in casualties among the local population.

The Mission's team site near the town, located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of El Fasher, reported that the security situation deteriorated beginning on 4 September with a rash of shootings, including an assassination attempt on a local official.

The incidents resulted reportedly in several dead and wounded. UNAMID evacuated by helicopter wounded civilians to E l-Fasher for emergency treatment.

On 5 September, armed men allegedly fired at local civilians, resulting in additional casualties.

“I am saddened that the people of Kutum have again had to endure pain and suffering. UNAMID calls for a cessation in hostilities and for all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue,” said UNAMID Acting Joint Special Representative Aichatou Mindaoudou.

The latest incidents come as the locality was still recovering from a series of attacks and subsequent destruction and looting which occurred early last month following the killing of a local commissioner and his driver..