By Deng Athian
A joint security force has been redeployed along bordering areas of Jur River County, Western Bahr El Ghazal (WBGs) and Warrap State after a deadly attack.
The joint force comprised of South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), police, and national security services
According to local officials, armed youth from Gogrial East County, Warrap State on Monday morning, attacked Tharkueng Payam in Jur River County, WBGs resulting in the deaths of 26 people and many others were injured.
Three children are reported missing.
Authorities in both Warrap and Western Bahr el Ghazal State confirmed the fatalities and injuries.
Western Bahr El Ghazal State Acting Police Commissioner, Maj. General Simon Yasi, the attackers targeted the police station. He said police officer and other security personnel were killed alongside civilians.
“The market was burned down, and the devastation is shocking. We agreed to redeploy a joint security force to maintain peace and stability in the area” he added.
He added the security forces managed to quell the tensions.
“We responded immediately to the scene and managed to control the situation,” Maj. Gen. Yasi stated.
Meanwhile, Warrap State Minister of Information, William Wol Mayom, condemned the attack and emphasized that investigations to identify the suspects will be conducted.
“This incident is deeply regrettable, especially as the country strives for peaceful resolutions,” Wol stressed.
“The government of Warrap State condemns this attack, and those responsible will be held accountable” he continued.
The persistent violence comes as a disregard to President Salva Kiir’s orders in January 2024, for a cessation of hostilities between communities in Western Bahr El Ghazal, Warrap State, and Abyei Administrative Area.
The head of State had also directed the deployment of neutral security forces to enforce the orders.