Responding to recent outbreaks of violence in Western Equatoria and Eastern Equatoria states, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) announced on Tuesday the deployment of additional peacekeeping forces and the initiation of urgent patrols.
The escalation occurred when armed Murle youth from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) carried out an attack on Kapoeta East County in Eastern Equatoria State on April 26.
UNMISS reported that the attack led to civilian casualties, the abduction of women and children, and the forced displacement of vulnerable communities.
Initial reports suggest a significant number of fatalities, along with the abduction of numerous women and children, as well as the theft of hundreds of cattle.
Furthermore, another incident of intercommunal violence unfolded in Tambura town in Western Equatoria State, resulting in the displacement of over 13,000 individuals.
The displaced population is currently sheltered at a displacement camp adjacent to a temporary base operated by UNMISS.
In addition, an additional 4,000 individuals sought refuge at another displacement camp in Tambura town in response to the renewed violence.