South Sudan authorities report at least 169 deaths in an attack that took place in the northern part of the nation. Civilians and officials are among the victims, which highlights growing concerns about security in the area
Details about the Attack
Around 04:30 on Sunday morning, the assault took place in Abiemnom County, Ruweng Administrative Area. The officials say that dozens of youths were armed and launched the assault while residents.
Ninety-nine children, elderly women and members of the regional security force, including the police, are among those who died.
Allergy and Denial
James Monyluak Mijok (Ruweng’s Minister of Information) claimed that the attackers were from Unity state, and had links to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition.
SPLA-IO denies involvement and accuses Unity state authorities for politicising the violence.
United Nations Response
Anita Kiki Gbeho is the officer responsible for UNMISS. She said that peacekeepers provide emergency medical treatment to 23 injured people. She called for all parties to immediately stop the hostilities and engage in dialog.
Mass Burials & Past Incidents
Violence continues in other areas of South Sudan. MSF, a medical charity in Jonglei State, reported 26 missing staff during clashes.
MSF suspended its services in Lankien, Pieri and other areas after an airstrike on Lankien’s facility occurred on 3 February. Staff and their families fled to remote locations with little access to water and food.
Background
South Sudan is the youngest nation in the world. Since its independence, it has been plagued by civil war, corruption, and poverty.
UN warned the country could return to civil war following the collapse of a power-sharing agreement between Salva Kiir, President Salva’s rival Riek Makar and the former in 2018.
