The UN Mission in South Sudan condemned armed group attacks in Warrap state that killed more than 60 civilians and injured about 50 others. The near-simultaneous attacks occurred Sunday in two communities in Tonj North county, causing widespread displacement and the destruction and looting of homes, property and livestock.
Acting head Graham Maitland said intercommunal violence was causing immense harm to already vulnerable communities and warned of the risk of further revenge attacks. UNMISS is deploying long-duration peacekeeping patrols to the affected area to assess the security situation, investigate human rights violations and help deter further conflict.
The mission said it is engaging intensively with officials at all levels to de-escalate tensions and is calling on authorities to strengthen security in the area and ensure accountability. Separate increased patrols are taking place in parts of eastern Upper Nile state where people are returning to villages after clashes between government and opposition armed groups.
Udier village, where the violence forced families to flee their homes and destroyed community infrastructure, has become a refuge for more than 36,000 displaced people and returning residents. Local officials told UNMISS that hospitals, schools and other buildings were looted, leaving the community without adequate shelter, food, clean water, healthcare or education. UNMISS said its priority is protecting civilians, reducing tensions and ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches those in need.
