At least seven people were killed and at least 15 others injured following intercommunal violence between the Abang and Malual communities in Kolnyang Payam of Bor County, Jonglei State, authorities said.
Bor County Commissioner Ateny Pech told Radio Tamazuj that the fighting broke out on Tuesday around 4 p.m. following a dispute involving a group of young people. He said the incident began when young girls were dancing along a road and were approached by young men from the other community. The encounter escalated after some of the men allegedly assaulted the girls.
“One girl, identified as Nyanuer Luol Themdeng, was severely beaten,” Ateny said. “When her relatives arrived and questioned the attackers, the situation quickly turned into a confrontation.”
The altercation escalated into a broader clash in which participants used sticks and, in some cases, firearms. By the time the violence ended, seven people had been killed and 15 others wounded. The injured are being treated at a local hospital, authorities said.
Security forces were deployed shortly after the fighting began and brought the situation under control within about 40 minutes, Commissioner Ateny said.
“We sent forces immediately, and they remain on the ground,” he said. “The state police commissioner also intervened, and we coordinated efforts to restore calm. The situation is now under control.”
Ateny said a security meeting was held and resolved to arrest those responsible for instigating and participating in the violence, including local leaders if found complicit.
The clashes occurred in Malual-Chaat, an area disputed between the two communities in recent months following the creation of a new administrative Boma. Authorities said investigations are ongoing as they seek to prevent further escalation.
and then