Khartoum, Sudan — A brutal armed attack on a seasonal cattle camp in South Sudan’s northwest region has resulted in the loss of at least 49 lives and left 33 injured, according to local officials.
The assault, which took place at the Machar — Pakuek cattle camp and Mading Juer Boma in Majak Payam, Tonj North County, Warrap State, is a stark illustration of the ongoing violence stemming from scarce grazing lands and water resources in the region.
The incident, which unfolded early on Thursday, was attributed to an armed cross — border criminal network, as stated by Warrap spokesperson William Wol Mayom Bol. “We extend heartfelt condolences to the families that lost loved ones in the attack and appeal for restraint, “he added.
This tragedy follows closely on the heels of another raid in the same area that left 60 dead and 50 wounded, and comes amidst a broader backdrop of conflict-induced displacement and a declared state of emergency across South Sudan. President Salva Kiir had declared the emergency in response to the surge of violent inter-communal cattle raids. This month, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Anita Kiki Gbeho, voiced concerns over the cycle of communal violence, particularly in areas like Warrap.
The international community is called upon to respond to this humanitarian catastrophe and to support the local government’s efforts to address the root causes of conflict.
The incident serves as a harrowing reminder of the human cost of the ongoing conflict in South Sudan and underscores the urgent need for a lasting peace.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
Source: AFP
