At least 14 people have been killed and 25 others wounded in inter-communal clashes between armed youth from Pakam and Rup of the Agar community in Rumbek and Gok youth from Cueibet County in Lakes State.
The violence broke out on Friday evening after armed youth from Gok allegedly tied up an elderly man in the bushes and made away with an unspecified number of goats before fleeing, police said.
The state’s acting police commissioner, Maj. Gen. Knock Majok Machar, told Radio Tamazuj on Saturday that fighting continued into the morning as the two sides exchanged attacks.
He said nine people were killed and 12 wounded on the Agar side, while five were killed and 13 wounded from the Gok community.
“The cause of the fighting was the theft of goats and the assault of an elderly man,” he said.
Local civil society groups urged the state governor, Maj. Gen. Madhang Majok Meen, to prioritize security and reconciliation efforts.
Daniel Laat Kon, coordinator of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) in the state, called for an inclusive dialogue process and renewed implementation of past peace agreements.
“We urge the government to set priorities that will contribute to peace and stability,” he said, adding that authorities should focus on security in Rumbek North, Yirol East and Cueibet counties.
He also called for the release of detainees held in military facilities, including SPLM-IO officials.
Adhel Malual, chairperson of the Civil Society Organization Network in the state, welcomed the governor’s appointment and pledged cooperation with the new administration.
“We stand ready to work hand in hand with your administration to ensure peace, justice and development reach all citizens,” she said, calling for inclusive governance and improved service delivery.
She urged authorities to address rising tensions linked to chieftaincy disputes and intercommunal conflicts, warning that insecurity in parts of Rumbek North, Cueibet and Rumbek East could escalate if not contained.
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