By Hou Akot Hou
At least 13 people were killed and seven others injured following a cattle raid in Tonj East County of Warrap State.
The state information Minister said that the incident occurred over the weekend.
Warrap State Information Minister, Mamer Baath Marol, told media that the attack occurred late Sunday night while residents were asleep at a cattle camp.
According to Minister, the attackers launched a sudden assault on the cattle camp, shooting indiscriminately and killing several civilians, including women and children.
“The incident occurred on Sunday night. Those killed in the attack include women and children who were living at the cattle camp. The attackers shot indiscriminately, killing 13 people and injuring seven others,” he said.
The assailants reportedly fled the scene with a number of cattle after the attack.
However, local youth pursued them, leading to a confrontation during which more than 2,000 stolen cattle were recovered.
Authorities believe the attackers may have come from neighbouring communities, though the identities of those involved have not yet been confirmed.
Baath said the government would ensure that those responsible are brought to justice if apprehended.
Cattle raiding has become a recurring security challenge in parts of Warrap State, often involving clashes between neighbouring communities competing over livestock.
Despite efforts by state authorities to reconcile communities and restore peace, the violence has continued. A state of emergency was previously declared in an attempt to curb the insecurity.
Observers say the continued clashes are partly fuelled by the proliferation of small arms in the region, which are believed to be entering communities through illegal smuggling networks.
The latest incident raises renewed concerns about security in the state as South Sudan prepares for planned national elections, with some analysts questioning whether the polls can take place amid ongoing local conflicts.