At least 30 individuals have been killed in northern South Sudan following an attack by an armed youth group on the town of Abiemnom in the Ruweng Administrative Area. The violence erupted after a cattle raid earlier in the week.
According to Simon Chol Mialith, the local Minister of Information, the initial incident involved the theft of lambs by armed youths, who were subsequently repelled by security forces. The following day, the group returned in greater numbers and launched a violent assault on the town.
Clashes between pastoralist communities and settled farmers are common in South Sudan, often fueled by disputes over livestock and grazing land. However, this recent incident raises concerns about escalating tensions in the region, especially given the fragile political situation in the country.
Local authorities are working to restore order and prevent further violence, but the incident underscores the ongoing challenges facing South Sudan in achieving lasting peace and stability.