Hundreds of residents mostly women and children in Agoro Payam of Eastern Equatoria’s Magwi County fled their homes following clashes between local youth and unknown armed men.
Residents said clashes erupted on Saturday when a group of armed men in uniform exchanged fire with local youth in Chomboro village of Agoro Payam. They said the men in uniform have been harassing and looting civilian properties for the last two weeks.
No casualties have been reported from the clashes.
Hellen Abee, a resident of Chomoro village speaking to Radio Tamazuj while leaving her village said the security situation has been worsening there.
“We are fleeing because of what happened. There are too many gunshots heard causing us to flee. We are running to Magwi for safety. But we are worried that after running, hunger will strike us, we need intervention because we have children. Only the youths have remained in Chomboro as all women flee,” she explained.
Mathew Ochan Okeny, speaking while in hiding, says the gunmen are destroying farms and houses. He also called on the government to protect them.
“This morning these people started shooting at our people and people scattered. I am in the bush hiding, These people have looted most of the people’s properties. They have destroyed mats and blankets and we are left with no option. Foods like cassava were destroyed. The destruction has been happening since 30th July,” Ochan explained. “People have been living in fear, fleeing the area and it is now the government’s responsibility because people are starving, women and children are suffering.”
Okot Romeo, Agoro Payam Paramount Chief confirms that there is a high movement of civilians out of Agoro going to Magwi since Saturday morning.
“On Saturday morning my youth, they went around and met unknown people wearing the uniform of the army and then exchanged fire with them. Up to now, they are still moving around and their footmarks are going that side of Aru.
He adds, “In this clashes, no one was injured because the youth started firing at the unknown gunmen. No one was injured, no one killed but women and children are going to Magwi side.”
Godfrey Bongomin, the police inspector in Magwi County applauds the youth for acting in defense and providing security in the area.
In February, the community of Agoro was displaced and badly affected by clashes caused by cattle rustling. After a while, many residents returned to their homes. However, more displacement is expected if the security situation remains tense.