The appointed governor of South Sudan's proposed Aweil state has allegedly ordered security personnel to arrest three community leaders from Mayom Wel area for refusing to join the new state and preferring to stay in their home areas of Aweil East.

In statement to Radio Tamazuj Monday, state information minister James Wiew said the three chiefs sent a letter to the state governor Ronald Ruai cautioning him from visiting Mayom Wel or face some problem if he visit the area.

He added that the accused chiefs tore down the flag of the state before the arrival of the governor which led to their arrest, saying this act is considered a big crime. 

Mayom Wel area is part of Aweil East but after the establishment order by President Kiir creating 28 states in the country it was annexed to Aweil state, a move rejected by the local community.