Authorities in Kwajiena County of Wau State and their counterparts from neighbouring Pagor County in Tonj State have agreed to maintain security along the common border, a local official said.

The agreement was endorsed by the two sides during a peace conference held on 14 April 2017 in order to promote peace and avoid further clashes between the two counties.

Kwarjiena County Commissioner Barjok Osuk told Radio Tamazuj that they agreed to form a joint police force comprises of 30 policemen to provide security along the common border.

The official further said the police force will stop frequent movements between herders from Pagor and farmers from Kwajina County.

Barjok pointed out that the new resolution will be implemented on 18 April if the other side is ready with its force at the common border.

The commissioner claimed that he had already handed over 15 cows to Pagor County Commissioner on 14 April after the peace conference between the two counties.

Separately, Commissioner Barjok said at least five people were killed and three others wounded in separate attacks by herders from Tonj County recently.

For his part, the Commissioner of Tonj County, Sabrino Philip Basia, denied any mounting tensions between the two counties. However, he said there was a misunderstanding between farmers and cattle keepers.

He confirmed his government’s commitment to resolve any problems amicably. Sabrino added that the herders have been ordered to pull out from Jur areas.