JUBA, Jan. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said Friday that civilian killings remain a grave concern, with 519 people having been killed between July and September 2025.
In its quarterly report, the UNMISS documented 295 incidents of conflict-related violence, affecting 1,153 civilians. Among them, 519 were killed, 396 injured, 159 abducted, and 79 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).
"Compared to the previous quarter, incidents decreased by 12 percent and total victims dropped by 24 percent," the UN mission said in a report issued in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
While civilian killings fell by 18 percent and injuries by 41 percent, the UNMISS recorded a 20 percent increase in abductions and a seven percent rise in sexual violence cases, signaling persistent threats to civilians.
The UNMISS noted ongoing hostilities involving conventional parties to the conflict as well as allied militias, with widespread armed confrontations, shelling, aerial bombardments, and targeted airstrikes affecting many states.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, officer-in-charge of UNMISS, said forced displacement continues to exacerbate humanitarian needs, particularly for women and children, undermining peacebuilding efforts.
"Accountability for violations remains essential for building trust, reconciliation, and a durable peace in South Sudan," Gbeho said.
UNMISS reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with national and local authorities, communities, and partners to enhance civilian protection, promote accountability, and support collective efforts toward achieving lasting peace and stability. ■
