By Peter Kuol Kuch
Over 14 people have been killed and more than 20 others sustained injuries following communal violence in Jonglei state.
Acting governor of Jonglei State, Simon Hoth has reported that clashes between Ayuel and Hol communities in Twic East and Duk counties, this week.
“The most development now is that the area that people fought has been evacuated by Hol, because they have invaded it. It is Ayuel now that has remained in the area,” he stated.
On Thursday, the Hol community reportedly launched an attack on the Ayuel community at Bioth-Agany Fishing Island. The two communities have been in conflict for the past two years over a disputed fishing island.
Speaking to this publication, the acting governor said that several wounded people have been transferred to Juba for medical treatment following the attack.
“Well, as I talk to you now based on the report I have on my table, I received that 6 people have been killed on the side of Hol and 14 wounded, while 8 from Ayuel have been killed and 7 wounded, we have even taken them to Juba for medical treatment,” Hoth explained.
He noted that children and women have taken refuge in the bushes of the island during the clashes and are currently being located.
Hoth added that security forces have been dispatched to contain the situation at Bioth-Agany Fishing Island.
“As I talk now, more forces that comprise of police and SSPDF soldiers are being sent to the area to guarantee normalcy in the area because we have to maintain law and order,” he stated.
Acting Governor warned residents in Bor town to refrain from violence and avoid further escalation, urging them to allow the government and the law to take their course.