South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Awan Achiek
At least six people were killed and 16 others injured in clashes in Tonj East County, Warrap State, a local official reported on Sunday.
The incident occurred around 4:33 a.m. on Saturday in Nyapagok Payam.
“A violent confrontation erupted between the Thiik and Akok communities in Nyapagok Payam, resulting in six deaths and injuries to 16 others,” the Warrap State Ministry of Information said in a press release on Sunday.
The confrontation was reportedly triggered by prior grievances between the two communities in Nyapagok Payam.
“According to county authorities, the clashes were sparked by earlier hostilities between the two communities. The situation escalated, leading to the violent confrontation.”
The ministry urged both communities to refrain from further attacks and to engage in dialogue to address their grievances.
“The state government, led by Acting Governor H.E. Aluel Garang Garang, strongly condemns the violence,” it added.
“We encourage the people of the Thiik and Akok communities to remain calm and work towards a peaceful resolution of their differences.”
The Warrap State Deputy Governor, Aluel Garang, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident to identify the root causes.
“The incident underscores the necessity for the government to take proactive measures to prevent conflicts between communities and to promote peace and stability in the area,” the statement noted.
Garang pledged to collaborate closely with local communities to resolve outstanding issues and foster peace.
“The government’s swift response to the incident is commendable, and it is crucial to continue working with local communities to address unresolved issues and promote stability.”
Warrap State has been plagued by revenge killings, cattle theft, banditry, and other forms of violence.
