Intra-clan revenge in Cueibet county, Lakes State has claimed the life of at least one person, sparking concerns it could escalate into large community fight if authorities in the area cannot prevent it from spiraling out of control.
The circumstances surrounding the incident which occurred on Wednesday remain unclear. There have been conflicting accounts about what transpired before the killing.
Some sources said the cause was a local dispute resulting from an earlier revenge killing relating to a youth suspected to have impregnated a girl but the state minister of local government and law enforcement agency said it was simply a matter of revenge killing.
Minister Samuel Wel Machiek attributed the incident to clashes within the Ayiil, a clan in Cueibet as a result of continuation of revenge attacks and killing. The minister said only one person was killed during the brawl and that the situation had returned to normal and security was under control.
The official explained organized forces on the grounds have beefed up law and order activities and increased vigilance to prevent any further clashes, noting the county commissioner is also in the field.
Samuel Wel Machiek announced that there will be constant disarmament especially in Rumbek and illegal weapons must be collected and handed over to the authorities.
The top local security official in the area warned whoever is found carrying a gun must be captured and handed to the authorities for investigation as to explain reasons for carrying a gun in the area.
Lakes State is still facing the issues of cattle raiding and revenge killings and roadside ambushes. There are also reports of increased night shootings as well roadside robbery resulting in the recent killing of a woman in Makoi area in the state capital, Rumbek.