Ruweng confirms 169 deaths in Abiemnhom, including 79 organized forces

2026-03-02 - 12:28

ABIEMNHOM, Ruweng Administrative Area (Eye Radio) – The Minister of Information for the Ruweng Administrative Area has confirmed the death of 169 people following an attack by armed youth from Mayom County on Sunday. Minister James Monyluak Mijok Thon states that the community has buried the deceased. The casualties include Abiemnhom County Commissioner Paulino Wan, the county’s Executive Director, and 79 members of the organized forces from the army and police. Minister Thon told Eye Radio that the 169 individuals include 90 civilians, consisting of women, children, and the elderly. The remaining 79 casualties were personnel from the army and police forces. “The confirmed number of those who died in the incident and have already been buried is 169,” Minister Thon stated. He noted that the community remained on alert following reports of movement, but the situation exceeded local response capacities. Ruweng authorities attribute the incident to a group of youth from Mayom County. Before the event, Ruweng officials sought and received assurances from Unity State leadership. The Unity State government deployed forces from the 4th Division a day before the incident to maintain stability, but the size of the arriving group moved past the stationed forces. Ruweng leadership is calling for a review and an explanation from officials to prevent future instability. Minister Thon urged the governor of Mayom and the governor of Unity State to provide answers regarding these events and called for accountability and a commitment to safety. Leaders continue to advocate for communication and cooperation between administrative areas to protect residents.