UNMISS calls for deployment of troops to Warrap to stop communal violence

JUBA — The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Tuesday called on the South Sudan government to urgently deploy security forces to prevent further deterioration of the situation in Tonj East, Warrap State.

Since December 2024, Tonj East has witnessed a surge in cattle raids and retaliatory attacks, with more than 200 people estimated to have been killed by March.

A recent outbreak of violence has reportedly claimed over 80 additional lives, though those figures are yet to be verified.

Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (Political), expressed serious concern over escalating intercommunal violence in the area, which has led to hundreds of deaths, the destruction of homes, and widespread displacement.

“The United Nations Mission in South Sudan is deeply concerned about escalating intercommunal violence in Tonj East, which has caused hundreds of deaths, the destruction of homes, and widespread displacement,” Cong said in a statement issued on Tuesday.

Cong said the mission is actively engaging with state and local leaders to help de-escalate tensions and has increased peacekeeping patrols in the region.

“Urgent intervention is needed from the national government to prevent the conflict from escalating to catastrophic levels and to bring communities together to peacefully resolve grievances.”

He said access to some affected areas remains difficult due to numerous checkpoints set up by armed youth.

“However, peacekeepers are experiencing significant challenges reaching some of the affected areas due to a proliferation of checkpoints manned by armed youth,” he said.

“While UNMISS is doing its utmost to deter further mobilization and conflict, the government is primarily responsible for protecting civilians, and we, therefore, encourage the government to rapidly deploy security services to prevent further violence and create a safe environment for community dialogue and peacebuilding.”