By Yang Ater
At least two people have been killed and three others injured in a boat collision along the River Nile in Yirol County of Lakes State, police reported.
The accident occurred at a junction near Pan-jai, in the border area between Jonglei and Lakes State.
Colonel Joseph Mayen Luk, the police chief inspector in Yirol East County, stated that the incident took place at night between the Pan-jai and Pan-pul Lual areas.
“The collision resulted in the deaths of two people,” he confirmed.
The deceased have been identified as Makat Kuernyang from Awerial and Malaat Jok Mabor from Yirol East County.
The injured people include Ngor Chok Marial, Maker Majier Mut, and Bakic Maker Mabor, all from Yirol East, as well as Machiek Terekeka, the driver from Bor County, and Majak Akuc, the driver of the other boat.
Thise who sustained serious injuries are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Bor County.
Colonel Luk indicated that the collision was due to the two boats meeting at the junction.
“As police in Lakes State, we will continue to investigate this case and ensure that all necessary procedures are followed,” he stated.
He urged the authorities in Bor County to forward details of the accident to Lakes State to facilitate a thorough investigation into how the collision occurred.
Commissioner Manyang Luk Lueth of Yirol East County confirmed the incident, noting that it took place while he was away from the county headquarters.
He expressed his regret over the lack of immediate details regarding the origins of the boats involved.
Civil society activist Angelina Adhel extended her condolences to the families of the victims.
She called on both the Lakes and Jonglei state governments to collaborate in ensuring that the injured receive the necessary medical care.