Three people were killed in a series of revenge attacks between communities in South Sudan’s Lakes State, local authorities said Wednesday.
The violence began Monday after a man, Kedic Keloktuol, was killed in a revenge attack in Meen Payam, located in Rumbek North County, according to Moses Maker Magok, the county commissioner.
Keloktuol’s killing sparked clashes between rival groups that spread to Rumbek Centre County, resulting in two more deaths. The deceased were identified by community members as Keloktuol, Mathou Mayol, and Mapuor.
Commissioner Magok told Radio Tamazuj that the situation is now under control and security forces are pursuing a suspect in the initial killing.
“He is yet to be arrested. But he is going to be arrested,” Magok said. He added that authorities had separated cattle camps belonging to the two groups to prevent further violence.
John Maker Dhiac, a youth representative in Rumbek North County, confirmed the three deaths and said tensions remain high. He said seasonal flooding that displaced cattle camps to higher ground has exacerbated conflicts, cattle raiding and thefts in the region.
The commissioner assured bereaved families that the government is working to apprehend the suspect and restore order.
Lakes State has long struggled with cycles of revenge killings, often rooted in cattle raiding and disputes over resources, which are exacerbated by the proliferation of arms and weak law enforcement.