South Sudan: At least 72 killed in Warrap State communal violence

At least 72 people have been killed and 38 wounded following a coordinated attack in Tonj North County, Warrap State, according to state government officials. The violence, which targeted Akop Payam, reportedly involved members of the Lou Ariik community attacking the Apuk Padoch community near the border of Warrap and Unity States.

Warrap State Caretaker Minister of Information William Wol reported that the casualties included 50 individuals from the attacking side and 22 from the victims’ side. The attack also resulted in the burning of several households and the markets of Athieng-puol and Rual-malith, alongside the raiding of cattle from the Majak-kou camp.

Officials have linked the incident to a cycle of retaliatory violence. The attack is believed to be revenge for previous raids, including an incident on October 24 that killed eight civilians. The state government has instructed security agencies to deploy forces to the area and is working to establish communication channels with Unity State to identify those responsible and recover stolen livestock.