At least 169 people killed in South Sudan 'surprise' attack

At least 169 people were killed in a surprise attack on Abiemnom county in South Sudan's Ruweng Administrative Area on Sunday. The attack, which occurred before dawn, was allegedly carried out by armed youth from neighboring Unity state, who are purportedly linked to the SPLA-IO, though the group denies involvement. Victims included 90 children, women, and elderly people, as well as 79 members of regional forces and several senior local officials. Fifty others were wounded and are receiving treatment in Abyei Administrative Area. Government forces have regained control, but the motive for the attack remains unclear. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (Unmiss) reported that approximately 1,000 civilians sought protection near its base following the surge in violence.

At least 169 people were killed in South Sudan's Ruweng Administrative Area on Sunday after an attack by armed men from neighboring Unity state. The attack targeted Abiemnhom County, resulting in the deaths of 90 civilians, including women and children, and 79 government soldiers. Dozens more were injured. The fighting lasted for several hours before the army regained control. A mass grave was prepared for the deceased. Local officials condemned the violence, calling it a "genocide" and urging Unity state to bring the perpetrators to justice. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) had previously expressed alarm over the increasing violence in the area. Separately, 26 humanitarian workers are missing following recent violence in South Sudan’s Jonglei state.