11 killed, 24 wounded in intercommunal fighting in Lakes

At least 11 people were killed and 24 others wounded in inter-communal clashes between the Durbar and Kokawac sections in Lakes State on Saturday, a local official said.

At least 11 people were killed and 24 others wounded in inter-communal clashes between the Durbar and Kokawac sections in Lakes State on Saturday, a local official said.

The fighting occurred at Malek cattle camp in Rumbek East County.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, the secretary general of the defunct Western Lakes State, Martin Maciec Kuc said state authorities have deployed forces to Pacong and other hotspot areas and they are ready to respond to any attack from armed youth.

"We have told both sides to move away from the cattle camp to villages in Panawac areas. The Durbar section has been told to move to Duotnhom cattle camp,” Maciec explained.

The local official said state authorities held several meetings with traditional chiefs from both sides to refrain them from further clashes.

 "The ring leaders of the fighting have not yet been identified, but we have urged the traditional chiefs to help identify them,” he added.

Maciec said the army would retaliate if any side attacks the other.

According to reports, the routine of intercommunal clashes in many parts of the country prevails due to lack of an efficient justice system.