Navy contingent leaves for South Sudan UN peacekeeping mission

A contingent of 71 members of the Bangladesh Navy left Dhaka on Monday to join the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.

According to an ISPR press release, the contingent departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Monday to join the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) as part of the Bangladesh Force Marine Unit-11.

They will replace the Bangladesh Force Marine Unit-10 currently deployed in the mission area.

Earlier, a first group of 99 naval personnel departed on 9 December to join the same peacekeeping mission.

As per the UN mandate, the Bangladesh Navy’s Force Marine Unit has been deployed in South Sudan to support global peacekeeping efforts.

The unit ensures safe movement of barges carrying fuel, food, medicines and humanitarian assistance in remote areas, monitors and controls piracy on waterways and assists local communities in firefighting.

In addition, the naval personnel provide security to civilian sailors working on barges, conduct rescue operations for distressed vessels and transport essential supplies to remote locations for both military and civilian mission members.

ISPR noted that for more than three decades, Bangladesh Navy personnel have been performing peacekeeping duties in conflict-affected regions across the world with professionalism, dedication and efficiency.

They have also been playing a vital role in rescue operations, emergency medical support for injured military and civilian personnel, and providing diving assistance when required.

Besides South Sudan, Bangladesh Navy warship BNS Sangram is currently deployed in the Mediterranean Sea off Lebanon as the only Maritime Task Force member from the subcontinent.

The Navy has also successfully completed 71 logistic operations, known as Operation Lifeline, navigating a 1,311-kilometre-long route along the Nile River.

The ISPR said Bangladesh Navy’s continued contribution to UN peacekeeping missions has significantly enhanced the country’s image and reputation in the international arena.