At least four people were killed and three others injured during a communal clash involving armed youths from Cueibet and Rumbek Central counties in Lakes State, according to a report by the Community Radio Network (CRN).
The incident occurred on Wednesday evening in the Relkou area of Mayom Payam, Rumbek Central County, where youths from Cueibet County had reportedly moved with their cattle.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, the Acting Minister of Information and Communication for Lakes State, Hon. William Koji Kerjok, confirmed the incident. He said the violence allegedly erupted following a dispute over a bull, which escalated after gunshots were fired, triggering clashes between the two groups.
Hon. Koji Kerjok stated that authorities from both Rumbek Central and Cueibet counties have launched investigations to determine the exact cause of the fighting.
He added that security forces have been deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further escalation of violence, noting that efforts are underway to identify and hold those responsible accountable.
Meanwhile, the State Coordinator of the Community Empowerment Progress Organization (CEPO) condemned the violence and urged both communities to immediately cease hostilities and embrace peaceful coexistence.
He also called on the newly appointed Governor of Lakes State to urgently travel to the state, take decisive action against those instigating violence, and actively engage communities in peacebuilding efforts.
