LAKES – The community in Maper is still reeling from a deadly cattle raid two weeks ago that claimed the lives of over a dozen civilians and left the community devastated form the loss of large numbers of livestock, which they rely on for both food and income.

In the wake of the attack, the Force Commander for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, Lieutenant-General Mohan Subramanian, visited peacekeepers serving at a temporary base in Maper, Lakes State, who intervened to halt the assault and provided urgent medical treatment to the many injured civilians.

He also engaged with local authorities about the security situation.

“Without the presence of UNMISS peacekeepers, the tragic events of May 11 would undoubtedly have escalated into an even greater disaster,” said the Commissioner of Rumbek North County, Moses Maker Magok.

UNMISS deploys temporary bases to locations where communities are assessed to be most at threat. Peacekeepers in these locations endure extremely difficult living conditions and face huge challenges carrying out their work, including navigating climate-affected terrain and being denied access to conflict areas by security services.

“Through timely and decisive actions, supported by unrestricted movement and easy access to high-risk areas, the mission can effectively protect vulnerable communities and prevent further escalation of conflict,” said the UNMISS Force Commander.

Despite the obstacles, they continue to play a crucial role in deterring violence, safeguarding lives and property, and promoting peace and stability.

“This temporary base is crucial for our peacekeepers to engage with communities through regular patrols. We are committed to protecting civilians caught in cyclical violence, but it is imperative that we address the root causes of conflict through collective action,” said Lieutenant-General Subramanian.

In the aftermath of the attack, many residents continued to stay near the temporary base, seeking safety amidst escalating tensions and violence. The peacekeepers are ramping up their efforts to ensure a protective presence beyond the base so that survivors can return safely to their homes and reclaim the peaceful lives they deserve.