A prominent South Sudanese activist has called for an investigation into the supply of weapons and ammunition to communities in Tonj North County, Warrap State, following a deadly attack in Akop Payam that left 72 people dead and 38 wounded on Monday. The activist, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress (CEPO), expressed concern over the significant loss of life and urged security agencies and defense institutions to take action. The attack has raised questions about how communities access such weapons.
Warrap State Caretaker Minister of Information William Wol Mayom Bol has accused armed groups from Mayom County in neighboring Unity State, along with sub-sections of Alabek Payam, of being involved in the attack. Yakani described the situation as alarming and emphasized the need for national security authorities to respond effectively. The attack has caused widespread concern, with many questioning how such violence could occur.
Yakani raised critical questions regarding the source of the ammunition and arms that have led to such tragic violence, stating that over 72 lives were lost and an additional 10 injured. He called for immediate attention from institutions responsible for security and defense, questioning how communities could access the weapons used in the clashes. The issue has sparked a national conversation about the ease of access to weapons.
Yakani also urged communities to address their differences through dialogue, warning against political manipulation that could exacerbate tensions. He cautioned against being drawn into confrontations by political actors or individuals who may benefit from division and conflict. The activist emphasized the need for communities to remain vigilant against manipulation.
Yakani questioned the effectiveness of government institutions tasked with protecting citizens, emphasizing the need for communities to remain vigilant against manipulation by those who thrive on conflict. He advised against allowing oneself to be used by certain political actors who may seek to turn people against one another. The situation has highlighted the need for greater community engagement.
The attack has been widely condemned, with Yakani stating that it is disturbing and unacceptable. He called on people in Greater Tonj to resolve any misunderstandings or disagreements through dialogue. The incident has sparked a renewed call for peace and stability in the region. Communities are urged to work together to prevent such incidents.
The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Warrap State, with many calling for greater action to be taken to prevent such attacks. The government has been urged to take a proactive approach to addressing the issue of arms supply and to work towards finding a lasting solution to the violence.
Key points
- 72 people were killed and 38 wounded in the attack on Akop Payam in Tonj North County.
- The activist, Edmund Yakani, has called for an investigation into the supply of weapons and ammunition to communities in the area.
- The attack has been attributed to armed groups from Mayom County in neighboring Unity State.
