South Sudan’s government has called for those responsible for a deadly aerial attack on Amiet Market in Abyei to be held accountable, warning that the disputed territory must not become a battleground for Sudan’s war.
The attack occurred on October 19 and caused civilian
deaths, injuries and damage to property, according to a statement from the
Office of the President issued on Wednesday.
The government condemned the strike and called for an
immediate end to attacks that put civilians at risk.
“An attack that brings death and destruction to a market
where communities gather to trade and sustain their livelihoods is
unacceptable,” the statement said.
It added that relevant government institutions had been
directed to investigate the incident, identify those responsible and take
appropriate measures to prevent further attacks.
The government also called on all concerned parties to allow
medical personnel to work safely and ensure humanitarian assistance reaches
people affected by the attack.
Abyei authorities reported that 220 people had been
killed and 19 injured as of October 20. About 8,000 people were also reported
to have been displaced.
Abyei, claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan, remains a
disputed territory whose final status has yet to be resolved.
South Sudan’s government urged communities to remain calm, maintain peaceful coexistence and avoid retaliation.