At least 169 people were killed in a raid by insurgents targeting Abiemnom village in South Sudan’s remote regions. The attack, which occurred over the weekend, left more than 90 civilians dead, including women and children, alongside scores of combatants. Local official James Monyluak from Ruweng Administrative Area stated that at least 23 people were wounded, with reports indicating dozens of additional deaths.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), established to provide peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance, reported over 1,000 civilians seeking shelter at its base after the attack. “Such violence places civilians under grave risk,” stressed Anita Kiki Gbeho, a UNMISS official. She urged both sides to cease hostilities immediately and engage in constructive dialogue.
UNMISS continued to patrol the area overnight, deterring crime and protecting civilians. A Ghana Battalion lance corporal Amenuvor Mabel highlighted their mission: “We joined the army for service; now we’re here providing security,” he said. His remarks underscored UN peacekeepers’ commitment to safeguarding communities amidst ongoing civil strife.
This incident is part of a broader escalation in violence across South Sudan, pitting government forces loyal to President Salva Kiir against insurgents linked to the opposition leader Riek Machar. Wieu De Mialek, Chief Administrator for Ruweng Administrative Area, indicated that the assault was conducted by elements associated with the White Army militia and allied groups of Machar’s SPLM-in-Opposition.
Despite denying any involvement in the attack, Machar remains under house arrest in Juba while facing criminal charges. His removal from office followed a surge in violence post-2018 peace agreement. Ongoing conflict threatens to unravel efforts at national reconciliation, with aid groups warning of life-threatening access restrictions in opposition-held territories.
The latest skirmish underscores the precariousness of South Sudan’s fragile peace and exacerbates humanitarian crises under way. With ongoing challenges plaguing the region, UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell has called for urgent dialogue between Kiir and Machar to address underlying tensions and prevent further loss of life.