14 killed, 20 wounded in Lakes State inter-communal violence

At least 14 people were killed, 20 others wounded and more than 300 head of cattle raided in inter-communal clashes in Rumbek Centre County of Lakes State on Saturday, community leaders said.

At least 14 people were killed, 20 others wounded and more than 300 head of cattle raided in inter-communal clashes in Rumbek Centre County of Lakes State on Saturday, community leaders said.

The attack on Marialbek and Awai cattle camps belonging to the Rup and Panyar communities was allegedly carried out by armed youth from the Pakam, Kuei and Gony communities.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, Moses Mading Chol, a youth leader from the Rup community, said at least eight people from their side were killed and over 300 cattle stolen in the attack.

“The Rup and Panyar communities lost eight people and nearly 300 head of cattle were raided, but the owners managed to rescue the cattle,” he said.

The youth leader further said although the situation in Lol-Manyiel grazing areas was stable, there are fears of attacks from those in the bushes.

Marial Dhiaodh, a Pakam community leader, said they lost five people during the clashes while the Gony community lost one person.

Lake State authorities were not immediately available for comment.