71 Killed in Fresh Inter-Communal Clashes in South Sudan

At least 71 people, including four soldiers, have been killed in inter-communal violence in Rumbek, a central town in South Sudan.

The violence erupted around 4 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, according to the country's interim Ministry of Information.

Witnesses told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that the clashes were linked to ethnic and community tensions in the world's youngest nation, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011.

According to witnesses, a group of young people from outside Rumbek attempted to take control of the town and briefly succeeded before police and military reinforcements arrived, forcing the attackers to withdraw.

Two witnesses said the fighting later spread to areas outside the town.

In a statement, the interim Ministry of Information confirmed that armed civilians were involved in the clashes, resulting in significant loss of life.

The government said additional security forces had been deployed to Rumbek and that the situation was under control. Four armed civilians were also arrested in connection with the violence.

The caretaker administration condemned the killings and urged communities across the country to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid further violence. It also assured residents that security forces would work to protect civilians.

The latest incident comes amid a wave of ethnic and communal violence in South Sudan.

In early March, at least 169 people were killed in inter-communal violence in the country's northern region after young men from the Nuer ethnic group reportedly sought revenge for the killing of some of their members at a market.

Similarly, at least 26 people were killed and 82 others injured in mid-September during inter-ethnic clashes in Abyei, a disputed region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan.

South Sudan continues to face significant challenges, including persistent communal conflicts and widespread corruption.

The latest violence comes as the country prepares for elections scheduled for December, following the dissolution of the government by President Salva Kiir and the establishment of an interim administration.

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