At least three people were reported killed and another eight wounded in clashes at Door payam in Awerial County in Lakes state Sunday, county commissioner Deng Dong Ajok said.
Deng told Radio Tamazuj the victims were just trying to mediate between the warring parties, but three of them were suddenly killed and eight others injured during clashes.
He said the incident is the first of its kind in Awerial County.
Deng said local authorities arrested an unspecified number of people suspected to have participated in the killing. He added that investigations are being carried out and that the suspects will be taken to the court Tuesday.
Deng urged local residents not to fear, claiming that the security situation has returned to normal.