South Sudan South Sudan Violence Mass Grave UN MISS Africa — Grieving families gather near a UN protection site after a deadly attack in northern South Sudan.

Deadly Massacre in Northern South Sudan Leaves 169 Dead

At least 169 people killed in northern South Sudan attack as violence rises, thousands displaced, and UN shelters frightened civilians.

By Fahad On Mar 2, 2026

South Sudan – (Web Desk) – At least 169 people have been killed and buried in a mass grave in northern South Sudan, according to two local officials who spoke to AFP on Monday. The tragedy marks the latest wave of violence in the conflict-hit nation.

The impoverished country has recently experienced a sharp rise in clashes between forces loosely aligned with opposition groups and government troops loyal to President Salva Kiir. The renewed fighting has forced thousands of families to flee their homes in search of safety.

Elizabeth Achol, health minister of the northern Ruweng Administrative Area, confirmed by phone that 169 bodies had been buried together in a mass grave. Local Information Minister James Monyluak shared the same figure, but cautioned that the death toll could rise if more bodies are found. He said the victims included women, children, and elderly people.

Monyluak added that around 50 others were injured in the attack and have been taken to medical facilities in Abyei and Warrap State for treatment.

A diplomatic source told AFP the initial information over the Abiemnom incident indicated the attack was conducted by a Nuer group, potentially in revenge for the killing of some traders.

No group has claimed responsibility for the incident.

Monyluak said many residents had fled to nearby villages, while others had sought protection at the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) compound in the county.

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“The security situation has since stabilised, with government security forces deployed and now in control of the area,” he added.

A UNMISS spokesperson said following the violence, peacekeepers were “temporarily sheltering some 1,000 civilians within our base in the area and providing emergency medical care to the injured”.