Authorities in Gogrial East County of Warrap state said Sunday that seven people have been killed in a series of separate incidents in Mangol Apuk payam over recent days.
County Commissioner Manut Aweer told Radio Tamazuj that the violence included killings linked to interpersonal disputes, cattle raiding and actions by armed youth.
Aweer said one incident occurred Friday when a man fatally punched a 20-year-old during a fight. The victim’s family rejected compensation, and the alleged attacker was later killed on Saturday, he said.
Another person was killed Sunday night, according to the commissioner. He also said armed cattle raiders attacked a cattle camp earlier in the week, killing two people and stealing livestock. The cattle were later recovered, and two suspected raiders were captured and killed, he said, citing local practices known as the “green book.”
Warrap state’s reconstituted legislative assembly in 2025 drafted bylaws that include provisions allowing the killing of individuals accused of murder or cattle raiding, according to local officials.
“The incident of youth fighting with bare hands happened on Friday, when one person punched another in the chest, leading to his death,” Aweer said. “The family of the deceased chose not to accept compensation, and the suspect was killed the following day.”
Aweer described the county as insecure, particularly during the dry season when cattle raids and clashes between armed youth tend to increase.
In another incident, he said, a young man was shot dead Sunday night after failing to identify himself when challenged by armed cattle defenders on patrol. He was later identified as a member of the local community.
Kir Aluietmiir, an elder and member of parliament representing Gogrial East County, confirmed the incidents and blamed rising violence on indiscipline among youth.
“Some young people do not respect elders or heed advice,” Aluietmiir said. “This is contributing to insecurity in our communities.”
He said community leaders face challenges in controlling armed youth, particularly those operating in remote areas, and called for stronger efforts to address illegal firearms and cattle-related violence.