60 Killed in Cattle Raids in South Sudan

Armed assailants killed at least 60 people during cattle raids in South Sudan's central Warrap state, local officials and media reported. Fifteen attackers were among the dead following two simultaneous assaults early Sunday, according to a local official.

“

This senseless act of violence is a direct violation of efforts for peace and stability.

"This senseless act of violence is a direct violation of efforts for peace and stability," said state spokesperson William Wol Mayom Bol in a statement. He vowed "immediate action to bring those responsible to justice." Around 50 people were injured, and an unknown number of cattle were stolen.

“

immediate action to bring those responsible to justice.

Bol added that the military has been dispatched to the affected areas to "restore law and order, protect civilians, and prevent revenge attacks." South Sudan has long been plagued by violent cattle theft, alongside clashes between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition groups. Last year, Kiir declared a six-month state of emergency after a surge in violent clashes and cattle theft between various groups. The country, which gained independence in 2011, is scheduled to hold its first election in December, though international observers question its feasibility. Opposition leader Riek Machar remains imprisoned awaiting trial.

“

restore law and order, protect civilians, and prevent revenge attacks.