An AK47-wielding herder walks behind his cattle during a dry seasonal migration in search for pasture. [Photo: Courtesy]TONJ — At least 49 people have been killed and 33 others wounded following renewed communal clashes in Tonj North County of South Sudan’s Warrap State, local authorities said.
The attack happened at around 5:00am on Thursday at the Machar-Pakuek cattle camp and Mading Juer Boma in Majak Payam.
William Wol Mayom, Warrap State Ministry of Information and Communication Services, described the incident as a “brutal attack.”
“A brutal attack targeting Machar-Pakuek cattle camp and Mading Juer Boma in Tonj North County, killing 49 and wounding 33 on both sides,” Wol said in a statement issued on Thursday.
Wol claimed that the attack was carried out by a group he described as an “armed cross-border criminal network.”
“The attack, which occurred on August 27, 2026, at 5:00 am, was perpetuated by an armed cross-border criminal network involving criminals in Unity State.”
He appealed for calm as authorities work to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
“We extend heartfelt condolences to the families that lost loved ones in the attack and appeal for restraint,” he said.
Wol disclosed the two state governments are working together to bring culprits to book and deter future incidents.
“Warrap State government calls upon humanitarian organizations and well-wishers to join hands with the state government to respond to the humanitarian catastrophe resulting from the conflict-induced displacement,” he said.
Wol said the violence has also raised concerns about displacement and humanitarian needs in the affected communities.
He said Governor Bol Wek Agoth remains committed to peaceful coexistence between communities in Warrap and neighboring states.
“The leadership of H.E. Amb. Bol Wek Agoth remains committed to peaceful coexistence between communities in Warrap and those in neighboring states.”
The government has not announced any arrests or provided further details about an investigation into the attack.
Warrap State, hometown of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, has experienced recurring communal violence, often involving cattle keepers and rival communities.
The clashes are commonly linked to cattle raids, revenge attacks, disputes over grazing land and water, and the proliferation of small arms.
Tensions can escalate when cattle are raided or when communities seek revenge for previous killings.
Such cycles of retaliation have contributed to repeated deaths, injuries, displacement, and destruction of property.
