YAMBIO, South Sudan — U.N. peacekeepers have stepped up patrols around the Makpandu refugee camp in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, after a recent attack left a Sudanese refugee dead and renewed fears among families who fled the war in neighbouring Sudan.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said the patrol was aimed at assessing the security situation and working with local authorities, security forces and refugee leaders to strengthen civilian protection, prevent further violence and rebuild confidence in the area.
Refugees interviewed at the camp said armed individuals have repeatedly entered Makpandu, firing weapons, intimidating residents and looting or burning property. Some families said the incidents have become so frequent that they now sleep in nearby bush areas at night, returning during the day only when it appears safe.
The security concerns follow a deadly incident on February 25, when aid groups reported that attackers opened fire, burned structures and looted homes and shops inside the camp, forcing residents and staff to flee into surrounding areas. The same account said one refugee was killed and a soldier wounded, with children left traumatised by the violence.
Makpandu hosts thousands of refugees and had been regarded as a place of relative safety for people escaping fighting across the border. But the latest violence has highlighted the fragile security environment in parts of Western Equatoria and the risk of displacement being compounded by new attacks even after refugees reach sanctuary.
UNMISS said sustained engagement with communities, regular patrols and cooperation with state authorities remain central to restoring stability around the camp. Refugee leaders and humanitarian workers, meanwhile, are calling for stronger protection measures and faster security responses to deter armed incursions and prevent further loss of life.
