By Riak Chol

The Acting Commissioner of Gumuruk County has condemned the deadly attack on civilians in Manyabol payam, attributing the violence to heavily armed youth from neighboring Jonglei state. The attack, which reportedly occurred on Sunday, has resulted in significant loss of lives, abductions, and theft of a herd of cattle.

Ngachuno Ngachagoi Lanyanga, Acting Commissioner of Gumuruk county, described the incident as a heinous and barbaric attack. 

“The recent assault, which took place in Manyabol payam (Ngarok) area has shaken the foundation of humanity and stand as a remainder of the brutality and anti-peace elements that continues to plague our country back ward,” Lanyanga stated.

The Commissioner further said the attack resulted in the deaths of nine people while seven women and children were abducted. 1,200 herds of cattle were raided and an unspecified number of people sustained injuries during the attacks.

Lanyanga called for immediate action from both the state and national governments.

“We call upon Government of Jonglei state to swiftly investigate this cowardly attack and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.  

He urged government to double efforts to address the root cause of violence and conflicts that has gone on for a number of decades.

The Acting Commissioner also expressed dismay over the apparent collapse of a recent peace accord, questioning the commitment of their neighbors to peaceful coexistence.

“My question goes to Jonglei state Government, where and when did you bury the peace accord that we have just signed two weeks back in Manyabol payam?” he asked, urging the community to “remain calm and avoid revenge” while calling on the government to deal with those responsible for undermining peace efforts.

This attack represents a continuation of inter-communal violence that has long plagued the region, often involving cattle raiding and retaliatory attacks between different ethnic groups.

Attempts to reach Jonglei state authorities for comment were unsuccessful.