South Sudan has condemned a drone strike carried out by the Sudanese Armed Forces on Amiet Market in the Abyei Special Administrative Area, which reportedly killed at least 73 people and injured more than 20 others.
At least 73 people have been reported killed and more than 20 injured in the strike on Amiet Market, according to local authorities.
Yohana Akol Ngor, Abyei’s caretaker Minister of Information and government spokesperson, told Eye Radio that several drones fired approximately seven shells at the market at around 11 a.m. on Monday.
The market, located about 10 kilometres north of Abyei town, sustained damage to several shops. Recovery efforts were reportedly complicated by fires that continued to burn at the scene.
Ngor said authorities were still recovering bodies and that the casualty figures could rise.
Dr Christian Lindauer, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Medical Activities Manager at Ameth Bek Hospital, said the facility had received more than 20 wounded people, including several in critical condition.
MSF teams are working alongside Ministry of Health staff to provide emergency treatment, including surgery and wound care.
The organisation has called on all parties to immediately stop attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the strike hit multiple locations within the market, north of Abyei Town, causing civilian casualties, injuries and significant property damage.
“The Government of the Republic of South Sudan condemns in the strongest terms possible the attack on Amiet Market,” the statement reads.
The government extended condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Juba called on the Sudanese government to refrain from actions that endanger civilian lives and property and to take the necessary measures to prevent similar attacks.
It also urged both sides to address issues concerning Abyei through established diplomatic channels and existing mechanisms for dialogue and engagement.
South Sudan reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining peace, security and stability in the disputed area, calling for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.
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