A deadly attack on Akop Payam in Tonj North County, Warrap State, South Sudan, has left at least 72 people killed and 38 others wounded. The attack, which occurred on Monday and lasted until late evening, involved armed groups from Mayom County in neighboring Unity State and parts of Alabek Payam. A senior state official confirmed the incident, which has been strongly condemned by the Warrap State Government.
According to Caretaker Information Minister William Wol Mayom Bol, the coordinated violence resulted in 50 of the deceased being from the attackers' side, while 22 were members of the affected community. The statement also reported that two women were among the victims, but it did not clarify whether they were among those killed or wounded. An unspecified number of cattle were raided from the Majak-Kou cattle camp.
The attack also resulted in significant damage to property, with two major markets in Athieng-Puol and Rual-Malith, along with several houses in villages across Akop Payam, deliberately set ablaze. Minister Mayom expressed concern over the recurring violence and revenge killings involving armed groups from Mayom County and communities in Alabek and Akop payams.
The cycle of violence has affected other areas in Alabek and Majak payams, including a separate incident on October 24, 2026, in Mading-Juer, where eight civilians, including a girl, were reportedly killed in a targeted attack linked to ongoing revenge killings. The Warrap State Government has extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
Security forces have been directed to deploy swiftly to Akop Payam to support efforts to provide medical treatment to the wounded. The minister urged communities to remain calm and exercise restraint to prevent further violence. The governments of Warrap and Unity states are establishing communication channels to facilitate the recovery of the raided cattle and identify those responsible for the attack.
The governments of Warrap and Unity states are working together to bring the perpetrators to justice. Minister Mayom also appealed to humanitarian organizations and well-wishers to assist the affected population, saying the violence had left vulnerable women, children, and elderly people without adequate food, medicine, and shelter.
The incident has highlighted the need for increased security and humanitarian assistance in the region. The Warrap State Government, under the leadership of Hon. Ustaz Angelo Ngot Mayar, has reiterated its commitment to addressing the root causes of the violence and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Key points
- At least 72 people were killed and 38 others wounded in the attack on Akop Payam.
- The attack involved armed groups from Mayom County in neighboring Unity State and parts of Alabek Payam.
- The Warrap State Government has condemned the attack and directed security forces to deploy to Akop Payam to provide medical treatment to the wounded.
