Abyei Minister Confirms Five Killed in Cattle Violence

(ABYEI) – Authorities in the Abyei Administrative Area have confirmed that five people were killed and more than ten others injured in an overnight attack last Friday on a cattle camp in Amethbek.

According to Information Minister Yohanna Akol Mach, the assailants, believed to be from neighbouring Unity State, opened fire on civilians during the raid and tried to seize approximately 1,500 head of cattle.

“They fired indiscriminately, killing four people on the spot. During the confrontation that followed, we lost one of our best teachers and several others were seriously wounded,” Akol said.

The attackers reportedly clashed with local youth who mobilised quickly to defend the camp and pursue the raiders. The stolen cattle were eventually recovered.

Although the livestock was returned, the situation in the area remains volatile. The minister has appealed for immediate intervention to prevent further violence and escalation between communities.

South Sudan has experienced recurrent violence linked to cattle raiding, often driven by competition for resources and long standing intercommunal grievances.

The Abyei region, which lies on the contested border between Sudan and South Sudan, remains particularly sensitive due to its political status and history of ethnic tensions.

Abyei authorities are now calling on both state and national security agencies to strengthen protection measures and support dialogue among communities to avoid more bloodshed.