Abyei: 26 dead and 82 injured in clashes at Amiet market

Clashes between members of the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities resulted in 26 deaths and 82 injuries at the shared Amiet market in the disputed Abyei area on September 15, 2026, according to a report released Thursday by the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei, UNISFA.

The outbreak of violence followed two separate murders: that of a Ngok Dinka man on September 14 and a Misseriya man the following day. These incidents heightened tensions around the Amiet market, a key trading hub for the communities in the area.

Following the clashes, UNISFA increased its presence around the market and deployed additional forces to mitigate the risk of retaliation. The mission stated it is working with local authorities and community leaders to restore calm.

The force commander, Lieutenant General Ganesh Kumar Shreshta, noted that leaders from both communities reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue. The UN asserts that its priority is the protection of civilians and the prevention of further escalation.

Abyei has remained a disputed area between Sudan and South Sudan since South Sudan’s independence in 2011. The Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities frequently experience tensions, particularly over grazing land, water points, and cattle movements.

UNISFA has called on the relevant authorities to conduct a swift investigation into the violence and to hold those responsible accountable, while maintaining an enhanced presence on the ground.