News|ConflictNearly 170 people killed in attack in South Sudan’s Ruweng, officials saySeparately, MSF says 26 humanitarian workers are missing following recent violence in South Sudan’s Jonglei state.

Security Update: Incident in Ruweng Administrative Area, South Sudan

On Sun, an attack by armed individuals in South Sudan's Ruweng Administrative Area resulted in at least 169 fatalities, according to local officials. The incident involved unidentified youths from Mayom County in Unity state entering Abiemnhom County.

The attack led to the deaths of 82 children, women, and elderly individuals. Additionally, 50 people sustained major and minor injuries. The local information minister reported the deaths of the county commissioner and the executive director among the victims.

Authorities reported that the fighting persisted for three to four hours before military forces regained control of the area. The government strongly condemned the attack and called for accountability from Unity state.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) expressed concern over the violence, noting the injury of 23 individuals in a recent attack. Peacekeepers are currently providing shelter to over 1,000 civilians and offering emergency medical care to the injured.

Impact on Humanitarian Operations in Jonglei State

The recent surge in violence in Jonglei state has resulted in 26 missing staff members from Doctors Without Borders (MSF). Operations in Lankien and Pieri have been suspended due to ongoing insecurity and recent clashes between government and opposition forces.

An MSF facility in Lankien was affected by a government airstrike on Feb 3. Many staff members have been displaced, seeking refuge in remote areas with limited access to essential services.

South Sudan continues to face challenges of civil unrest, poverty, and corruption since its establishment in 2011.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.