Four-day-old infant survives head gunshot, loses both parents in deadly cattle camp attack in Tonj East

A four-day-old infant is recovering after being shot in the head during a deadly nighttime attack on a cattle camp in Tonj East County that left both parents and a little sister dead, according to the Warrap State government.

Speaking to Eye Radio on Monday, Warrap State Information Minister said unidentified armed assailants attacked Thiok-Kuil cattle camp in Tonj East County on the night of June 20, killing three members of the same family and critically injuring the newborn child.

Wol Mayom said the infant was rushed to Tonj Civil Hospital in critical condition, where surgeons performed an emergency operation to stabilize the child.

According to him, the baby suffered a gunshot wound to the head and underwent emergency stabilization and debridement by a medical team led by a consultant surgeon.

He said the infant is now in stable condition, awake, and feeding following the life-saving intervention.

“The medical team successfully performed an emergency stabilization and debridement. The infant is currently stable, awake, and feeding,” Mayom said.

The attack occurred in Thiok-Kuil, an area located within the Luacjang community of Tonj East County.

Warrap State authorities said investigations have been launched to identify and apprehend those responsible for what they described as a “horrific, senseless and inhumane” attack.

The state government also praised the surgical team at Tonj Civil Hospital for their swift response, saying their efforts helped save the life of the child.

Mayom further said the government is working closely with the family to ensure the infant receives specialized medical treatment if recommended by doctors.

Meanwhile, the government conveyed condolences to the relatives of the three victims killed in the attack and appealed for calm as investigations continue.