The Government of Jonglei State has issued a directive for the immediate apprehension of all suspects involved in the recent conflict between the counties of Twic East and Duk following escalating tensions and violence in the region.
On 6 June 2024, at least seven people were killed and 10 others injured after suspected armed assailants from Twic East County attacked an island in Duk County.
The incident heightened tensions in the region, especially considering the unresolved death of Deng Dau, a renowned wrestler, also known as Deng-Moradong, who was killed under mysterious circumstances involving suspected armed individuals from Duk County in October 2023.
Jonglei State Information Minister Nyamar Lony Thichot told this publication that the decision was taken during a state security meeting convened and chaired by Acting Governor Atong Kuol Manyang to address the spiraling crisis.
“The Government of Jonglei State resolved that the two culprits from Duk who are responsible for the 15 October 2023 incident be brought to the state authorities within one week,” he revealed. “The state authorities also resolved that the culprits from Twic East’s Ayual section who are responsible for the 6 June 2024 incident which led to the death of 7 people and injury of 10 others be brought to authorities by the Twic East Community within one week.”
According to Minister Lony, the state government expects swift action, and all suspects, regardless of their affiliation, must be apprehended within the next seven days. She said the urgency reflects the gravity of the situation and the need to restore peace and stability in the region.
The decisive stance by the Jonglei State powers that be underscores the severity of the conflict and the authorities’ commitment to maintaining law and order. As the situation unfolds, officials maintain that they will closely monitor developments and ensure that justice prevails.