UNAMID deplores the outbreak of violence between Ma'alia and Reziegat in East Darfur

EL FASHER (DARFUR), Sudan, May 13, 2015/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- UNAMID strongly deplores the rapid deterioration of tensions between the Ma'alia and the Reziegat tribes into armed confrontations resulting in the death of dozens of fighters from both sides and the injury of many others. The Mission remains gravely concerned about the continued mobilization on both sides despite a temporary lull in the fighting.

UNAMID continues to exert around-the-clock efforts to mitigate the impact of the fighting on the civilian population in the area. The Mission is ready to assist the Sudanese authorities in the ongoing evacuation of more than 50 injured tribesmen from both tribes to Khartoum for treatment. It also provided East Darfur State medical authorities with medicines and other surgical equipment which were in short supply. Mission officials are, in the meantime, coordinating closely with the UN Country Team to facilitate delivery of critically urgent assistance to those affected by the conflict. In addition, UNAMID peacekeepers in East Darfur have raised their level of preparedness and put in place proactive response measures to address any potential demands for physical protection or shelter for affected civilians.