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Unpredictable danger

Due in part to a heavy workload and communication difficulties, Luo is under huge pressure at the FPU coordination office, and he often works overtime.

When a key operation is underway, he must be present at the scene, where the situation can be unpredictable and dangerous.

A serious conflict triggered by a minor theft case occurred at one of the sites in August. Thousands of internally displace people fought each other in two groups, wielding machetes, iron bars, sticks, spears and stones - and even pistols and hand grenades. The conflict lasted for about two weeks, leaving more than 300 civilians injured and six dead. Nine UN police officers were injured.

During the event, Luo was at the scene coordinating the FPU to tackle the problem.

"The situation was really chaotic and dangerous," Luo recalled.

"Mobs attacked the police officers with showers of stones, but you have to confront them face-to-face to solve the crisis."

Luo, a father of two, said his blood pressure has been high during the mission to South Sudan, due to the work pressure and tough living conditions.

It's a great challenge for Chinese police officers to work with colleagues coming from around 40 countries, Luo said.

"Meanwhile, high temperatures, ultra-strong sunlight, mosquitoes, infectious viruses and poor hygiene and sanitation are threats to everyone's health," Luo said.

"Some colleagues got malaria, and some have fallen ill from being bitten by an unknown bug."

The local supply of daily necessities is insufficient, and there are few markets or restaurants nearby. Luo and his teammates need to cook for themselves after work.