UN calls for investigation over assault of staff, allegedly by members of South Sudan army

The U.N. has protested alleged physical assault of its military and civilian personnel by members of the South Sudanese army at a roadblock in Central Equitoria state.

According to a statement Thursday, personnel in a patrol by the U.N. Mission in South Sudan were ordered out of the vehicle and assaulted by the soldiers. The patrol, which was on its way to Wonduruba in Central Equitoria, then turned back, the statement said.

The U.N. mission in South Sudan condemns such "hostile acts" and wants an immediate investigation into the incident, the U.N. secretary-general's spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, told reporters on Thursday.