Eastern Equatoria State Minister of Information Mark Akio Ukinbul says the situation in Owiny Kibul area of Magwi County remains calm after army recruits at a training centre were transferred from the area following tensions with villagers.

“Everybody in Owinykubil is staying peacefully and there is no problem up till now. That group that had caused those problems – those soldiers – they have been taken away to another place... those were recruits who were in training,” he said.

He said there were no new recruits who had come to take their place. The minister insisted the situation in the whole state is calm and denied the presence of rebels in any areas including Kapoeta.

Last week in Magwi County locals clashed with SPLA recruits following a bar fight. Dozens of homes of villagers were burned by the recruits in ensuing violence.

Related coverage:

Magwi chief blames SPLA training administration for clashes (27 Feb.)

SPLA-Juba beats Magwi civilians, burns homes after soldier's barfight (25 Feb.)