At least two people were killed and two others wounded during inter-clan violence in Twic County of South Sudan’s Warrap state, local authorities said Thursday.
The clashes erupted in Maper village of Aweng Payam following an inter-clan land dispute between members of the Madhian and Pajieng communities, officials told Radio Tamazuj.
Among those killed was a teacher identified as Aguer Aguek Atem, as well as a woman, according to county officials.
Twic County Commissioner John Mabior said the violence stemmed from disagreements over land boundaries and traditional rituals. He said a policeman opened fire during the confrontation, killing the woman and later shooting the teacher as he attempted to intervene and separate the fighting groups.
“The situation has been contained and security has returned to normal,” Mabior said, adding that joint forces of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and police were deployed to restore calm.
Mabior said four chiefs were arrested on suspicion of inciting the violence, while other suspects are being pursued.
Warrap state lawmaker Maper Mayom Yuot, who represents Aweng Payam, confirmed the incident and condemned the killings, calling for a peaceful resolution to the inter-clan land dispute.
“The conflict started with sticks and later escalated to the use of guns,” Mayom said. He urged communities in Twic County to remain calm, saying authorities were working to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Inter-clan and intercommunal land disputes are common in parts of South Sudan, often escalating into deadly violence amid weak law enforcement and widespread availability of firearms.