Abyei Market Deaths Alarm Local Traders

(ABYEI AREA) – The deaths of two traders operating small businesses at Amiet market have raised fresh concerns about security and business confidence in one of South Sudan most important trading hubs. Local authorities say investigations are ongoing as the incident threatens to unsettle trade activity in the disputed Abyei region.

Bulabek Deng Kuol, the Abyei area paramount chief, told media that the two victims, believed to be traders from Aweil, were killed on Wednesday and their bodies were discovered on Thursday near Abyei town. The bodies were found in a hafir, a water reservoir, close to a base used by the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei.

According to Deng, the traders were residents of Aweil who had been conducting business at Amiet market, a key commercial centre linking South Sudan and Sudan. He said their bodies were dragged and dumped into the water point, describing the incident as a serious criminal act that could undermine stability in the area.

Deng said there is no known history of conflict between the Aweil community and the Ngok Dinka of Abyei, stressing that the killings should not be viewed as a reflection of relations between trading communities. He warned that any attempt to incite tension could harm peaceful coexistence and disrupt economic activity that many households depend on.

Yohana Akol Ngor, the Abyei area minister of information, also confirmed the deaths and said security forces are actively pursuing suspects. He noted that residents had gathered peacefully to celebrate Christmas and the New Year, marking a rare period of calm after years of insecurity that had limited social and economic activity.

Ngor said authorities had mainly been concerned about road safety during the celebrations, particularly in crowded trading areas where motorcycle accidents are common. He added that while some minor accidents occurred, no fatal road incidents were reported during the festivities.

He confirmed that the two victims were traders at Amiet market and said the security apparatus is following up the case to ensure those responsible are brought to justice. He acknowledged that the growing presence of refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan and South Sudanese returnees has made it harder to identify suspects, adding pressure on local security systems.

Ngor assured residents and the business community that the government will not allow such incidents to continue, noting that stability is essential for trade, investment and livelihoods in the area.

Abyei remains a disputed region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan and has been administered under a special arrangement since 2011. The area is secured by UNISFA, while Amiet market has previously experienced deadly violence linked to insecurity and communal tensions, factors that have at times disrupted trade flows and increased costs for traders.

For many small scale traders, Amiet market serves as a vital source of income and a gateway for cross border commerce. Any prolonged insecurity risks discouraging traders, reducing supply of goods and affecting prices across neighbouring counties.

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