Drone strike kills at least 153 at market in disputed Abyei
A drone strike hit Amiet market in Abyei, disputed between Sudan and South Sudan, killing at least 153 people, according to local officials. South Sudan blamed Sudan’s military without providing evidence and summoned Sudan’s ambassador; the death toll may rise as fires hinder recovery.
Bottom line — The Abyei strike brings the reported death toll from recent attacks to more than 250.
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The market fire was still burning, and about 8,000 people were displaced, Abyei’s caretaker information minister said.
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MSF said it was treating more than 20 wounded people at Ameth Bek Hospital, including critical cases and people with burns.
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Reuters sources said the strike hit a fuel depot reportedly used by Sudan’s RSF; a witness said they saw no uniformed fighters in the market.
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Amiet market serves the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities, whose preferences on Abyei’s status differ, according to the Guardian.
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The UN condemned the attack and said drone strikes across Sudan were taking a devastating toll on communities, DW reported.