South Sudan has summoned Sudan’s ambassador to Juba following a deadly drone strike allegedly carried out by the Sudanese army on a crowded market in the disputed Abyei region, amid reports that at least 73 civilians were killed.
The foreign ministry summoned Ambassador Essam Mohamed Hassan Karrar on Monday to formally protest the attack on Amiet Market, also known as Al-Naam Market, north of Abyei town.
The strike, which local authorities blamed on Sudan’s military, reportedly targeted fuel storage facilities and trucks transporting supplies from South Sudan into Sudan’s Darfur region.
Abyei officials said at least 73 people were killed and 19 others injured, although the casualty figures have not been independently verified.
In a statement, South Sudan’s foreign ministry expressed deep concern over the attack, warning that military operations targeting civilian commercial centres threatened regional security and stability.
The ministry said drones struck several sections of the market, causing civilian casualties, injuries and extensive damage to commercial facilities and property.
Juba demanded that Sudanese authorities refrain from military actions that endanger civilian lives and called for measures to prevent further attacks.
It also urged the Port Sudan authorities to address disputes concerning Abyei through established diplomatic mechanisms rather than military force.
The incident has heightened tensions over the disputed region, which remains a politically sensitive territory between Sudan and South Sudan.
Amiet Market has emerged as a major commercial hub since Sudan’s war erupted in April 2023, facilitating the movement of fuel, food, medicine and construction materials between South Sudan and areas of Darfur and Kordofan.
Trade through the market has expanded as Sudan’s conflict disrupted established supply routes, increasing the region’s importance to communities dependent on cross-border commerce.
South Sudan reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and resolving disputes peacefully in accordance with international law.
The Sudanese military had not publicly responded to the allegations as of the latest reports.
