“The Secretary-General expresses his deepest condolences to the Government of Ethiopia, to all UNISFA personnel, and to the families of the two victims. He wishes the wounded a speedy recovery,” said a statement issued by his spokesperson on the attack, which also left three civilians wounded.

Ban called on the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan to assist UNISFA in swiftly bringing the perpetrators of this attack to justice.

“He urges both Governments to resume without delay their cooperation on the implementation of the 20 June 2011 Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei area and to support the Mission's efforts to promote dialogue between the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities,” said the statement.

Lastly, he called on both communities to remain calm and avoid any escalation of this tragic incident.

UN Photo/Tim McKulka