At least six people were killed and 12 others injured in an airstrike in Kueryiek Payam, Mayom County, Unity State, on Tuesday evening, according to eyewitnesses.
The attack, carried out by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), occurred at around 17:17 local time. Witnesses said the strike targeted an area where armed youths had reportedly gathered after raiding cattle from neighbouring Warrap State on Monday.
Residents told Radio Tamazuj that six civilians died in the bombardment, with 12 more wounded.
“Those who were injured are still in the forest—no one has been taken to a healthcare facility in Mayom County,” one witness said.
Another source confirmed that the military operation was aimed at suspected cattle raiders from Mayom County.
It remains unclear why the military planes targeted the group.
Mayom County Commissioner James Liliy Kuol said he was aware of reports of the bombardment but had not yet received official confirmation.
“I heard from people that there was a bombardment, but I am at the county headquarters and have no official details yet,” he said. “The area is near Bahr el Ghazal, far from the headquarters. I will provide an update when I have more information.”
The army has not yet commented.
South Sudan has been under a fragile peace since a 2018 agreement ended a five-year civil war between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and his rival, First Vice-President Riek Machar.
Tensions have risen since March, when Dr Machar was accused of plotting a rebellion—a move that has raised international concerns about a possible return to conflict.