South Sudan cattle camp attack kills 35, injures 46

At least 35 people have been killed in an attack on cattle camps in southeastern South Sudan, a community leader confirmed Sunday.

The raid occurred last week in the Dinka Bor region, with 46 others left injured. Mayom Ateny, a community leader, disclosed the tragic toll, describing how four cattle camps were targeted on January 31.

The attackers, still unidentified, looted 11,000 head of cattle during the assault. This marks another deadly incident linked to cattle raiding, a long-standing issue that often fuels ethnic conflict in the country.

Cattle are not only vital for survival but also represent wealth and status in South Sudan, with some used in bride prices that can range from a few to several hundred animals.

Magwi county’s commissioner, Olum Pole Pole Ataruk, and Eastern Equatoria state’s information minister, Elia John Ahaji, have yet to comment on the attack.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) condemned the violence, with Nicholas Haysom, its head, urging for restraint. He expressed grave concern over the escalating tensions between cattle herders and farming communities.

Despite the end of the civil war in 2018, which claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, South Sudan remains plagued by sporadic violence. Clashes among armed groups continue to destabilize the nation.

The recent attack highlights the fragile peace, as efforts to curb violence and protect civilians remain a challenging task.

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