Chinese peacekeeping infantry battalion to South Sudan (Juba) completes joint long-distance patrol mission

By Wang Shuai and Yang Shiwei

Chinese peacekeepers are ona foot patrol. (Photo by Jin Lekang)

JUBA, Sept. 1 -- The 12th Chinese Peacekeeping Infantry Battalion to South Sudan (Juba) recently conducted a security inspection and a joint long-distance patrol mission in Rokon and other areas together with UN military observers, UN police and child protection advisers. The mission was carried out under authorization from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and orders from Sector South under UNMISS. The peacekeepers also carried out humanitarian assistance activities.

South Sudan is currently in its rainy season, with sweltering weather, rough and difficult roads, and daytime temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The long-distance patrol lasted three days and two nights and covered a round trip of nearly 400 kilometers, passing through multiple checkpoints of the South Sudan People's Defense Forces. The fully armed peacekeepers remained on high alert throughout the mission.

Upon arriving in Terekeka, the peacekeepers established a temporary operating base (TOB), deployed security equipment around its perimeter, and set up a security and defense system. Accompanying medical personnel thoroughly disinfected the area.

The Chinese peacekeepers then conducted security patrols in surrounding areas from the TOB, while simultaneously dispatching teams to Rokon, Muni and other areas to carry out escort missions.

The peacekeepers also established friendly relations with the local government and police in Terekeka and visited local villages to provide free medical services, drinking water and other humanitarian assistance.

During the joint long-distance patrol to Rokon, the Chinese peacekeepers successfully completed all assigned tasks, earning praise from UNMISS and local residents.