The assault, which occurred at approximately 4:29 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, is being described by authorities as one of the deadliest incidents in the area in recent months.
According to an official statement issued Monday by Information Minister and government spokesperson Ateny Wek Ateny, the attack targeted both civilians and local officials.
Among those confirmed killed are the County Commissioner of Awarpiny and the Executive Director of Abiemnom County.
In addition to the reported 169 fatalities, at least 68 people were wounded. The government cautioned that the figures remain subject to verification as recovery operations and identification of victims continue, raising the possibility that the death toll could increase.
“The Government of the Republic of South Sudan is deeply disturbed by the barbaric attack on Abiemnom County,” the statement said, condemning the violence as a heinous act that undermines peace, stability, and national reconciliation efforts.
In response, security organs have been directed to immediately restore order in the area and conduct a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible. The government has pledged that perpetrators will be held accountable in accordance with the law.
Authorities also appealed to communities to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory actions, warning that revenge attacks could further destabilise an already fragile security situation.
While no group has claimed responsibility, the Ruweng Administrative Area authorities have accused elements of the White Army from Mayom County in Unity State, allegedly acting in coordination with forces linked to the SPLA-IO. The SPLA-IO has denied any involvement in the attack.
The government extended condolences to the families of those killed and expressed solidarity with the people of Abiemnom County as investigations begin into what it has termed a massacre.
The incident comes less than a month after at least 25 civilians were lured and killed by members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces in Pankor village in Ayod County of Jonglei State.
