The Government of the Republic of South Sudan has confirmed mass casualties following a deadly early-morning attack on Abiemnom County in the Ruweng Administrative Area, describing the incident as a “barbaric” and “cowardly” act of violence against civilians and public officials.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology & Postal Services, the government said the attack occurred at approximately 4:29 a.m. on Sunday, 1 March 2026.
The assault left senior local officials and scores of civilians dead, plunging the area into mourning.
“The Government has confirmed the killing of the County Commissioner of Awarpiny, alongside the Executive Director of Abiemnom County,” the statement said.
It further reported that “over 169 people have been killed, and more than 68 wounded,” noting that the victims include civilians as well as members of law enforcement agencies.
Authorities cautioned that the figures remain provisional. “These figures remain subject to verification as recovery efforts continue,” the government said, indicating that search and identification operations are still underway in the affected areas.
Condemning the violence in strong terms, the government said the attack “undermines peace, stability, and ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and national unity.”
It described the killings as an assault not only on the people of Abiemnom but also on broader national efforts to consolidate peace.
The statement, signed by Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny, conveyed sympathy to those affected by the tragedy.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and stand in solidarity with the people of Abiemnom County during this painful time,” it read.
In response to the incident, the government said security forces have been instructed to act swiftly.
“The security organs have been directed to restore order, investigate the incident thoroughly, and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
At the same time, the government appealed for restraint among communities in and around the affected area.
It urged residents to “remain calm and refrain from retaliatory actions” as authorities work to stabilize the situation and protect civilians.
The Abiemnom attack is one of the deadliest incidents reported in recent months, and the government’s statement signals heightened concern over the security situation in the Ruweng Administrative Area as investigations continue and families bury their dead.
