Abyei Market Strike Toll Exceeds 220, Official Says

A drone strike on Amiet Market in Abyei killed more than 220 people, according to the region’s caretaker information minister, as recovery continued after the attack and a fire at a nearby fuel depot. The strike occurred on October 19 in the disputed region claimed by Sudan and South Sudan. Responsibility and the final death toll have not been independently established. Yohanna Akol Ngor’s reported count rose as recovery efforts continued: he initially reported 73 deaths, then 153, before telling Eye Radio on October 21 that more than 220 people had died. The changing figures were reported while fire hampered efforts to recover bodies. The available accounts do not establish a final verified toll. South Sudan’s Foreign Ministry accused Sudan’s military of striking several locations in the market, causing civilian casualties and property damage. The ministry said it summoned Sudan’s ambassador to protest and called for disputes concerning Abyei to be addressed through diplomatic channels. Sudan’s military did not provide a response in the supplied accounts. A senior Sudanese military officer, speaking anonymously, said the army carried out the strike against fuel tankers from...