Authorities in Kapoeta North County of Eastern Equatoria State have accused youths from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) of killing 14 civilians, including women and children, in a violent attack last week.
The incident, which occurred early Friday morning, also left nine people injured and resulted in the theft of more than 700 head of cattle.
The Kapoeta North leadership has blamed GPAA officials for allegedly providing arms to their youths, enabling them to carry out attacks on innocent civilians in Eastern Equatoria State.
Kapoeta North County Commissioner Nayii David Nayii told Radio Tamazuj that the attackers, appeared to be waging war against the people of Eastern Equatoria State. He called on GPAA leadership to investigate the attack and ensure accountability for those responsible.
“Last Friday, the Murle attacked people in kraals at Napeikar around 4 a.m., shooting and killing 14, injuring nine, and driving away 700 head of cattle,” Commissioner Nayii said. “The Murle must know the perpetrators and bring them to justice.”
Gerard Lokale, a youth leader in Kapoeta North County, urged GPAA authorities to refrain from actions that violate the right to life. He accused GPAA leadership of inciting violence by arming residents and demanded the immediate return of the stolen cattle.
Elia John Lotede, a resident of Kapoeta North, expressed deep sorrow over the killing of women and children, calling it a grave violation of human rights. He emphasized the need for dialogue between the two areas to prevent further attacks on civilians.
In response, GPAA Information and Communication Minister John Werchum Juk stated that his government had not received official communication regarding the attack. However, he confirmed that local authorities had been alerted to investigate the incident and hold any perpetrators accountable.
“We have no information about the attack on Kapoeta North County, but we have already alerted local authorities,” Minister Juk said. “Our team is still assessing whether our youth were indeed involved in that incident.”