Activist Demands Probe into Arms Supply After Deadly Tonj North Attack

By Awan Achiek

A prominent South Sudanese activist has urged security agencies and defense institutions to investigate the supply of weapons and ammunition to communities in Tonj North County, Warrap State, after a deadly attack in Akop Payam that left 72 people dead and 38 wounded on Monday.

Following this violence, which resulted in significant loss of life, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress (CEPO), expressed his concern and called for an urgent inquiry into how these weapons reached the communities.

Warrap State Caretaker Minister of Information William Wol Mayom Bol has accused armed groups from Mayom County in neighboring Unity State, along with sub-sections of Alabek Payam, of being involved in the attack.

Yakani described the situation as alarming and emphasized the need for national security authorities to respond effectively.

He raised critical questions regarding the source of the ammunition and arms that have led to such tragic violence, stating, “Who is behind the supply of the ammunition, armament, and bullets to our communities in Tonj that can lead to deadly violence, claiming over 72 lives and now an additional 10?”

He called for immediate attention from institutions responsible for security and defense, questioning how communities could access the weapons used in the clashes.

Yakani also urged communities to address their differences through dialogue, warning against political manipulation that could exacerbate tensions.

“What is the purpose of having a government, whether at the state or national level, and institutions responsible for security and defense if the safety, security, and protection of our citizens are being compromised?” he asked.

Yakani cautioned against being drawn into confrontations by political actors or individuals who may benefit from division and conflict.

“This is disturbing and unacceptable. We strongly condemn the perpetrators of this violence and call on our brothers and sisters in Greater Tonj to resolve any misunderstandings or disagreements through dialogue.”

He questioned the effectiveness of government institutions tasked with protecting citizens, emphasizing the need for communities to remain vigilant against manipulation by those who thrive on conflict.

“Do not allow yourselves to be used by certain political actors who may seek to turn you against one another, or by individuals who benefit from seeing such deadly violence within our communities,” he advised.