19 killed, 14 injured in renewed Tonj South clashes

At least 19 people have been killed and 14 others injured following renewed intercommunal clashes in Tonj South County of Warrap State on Monday morning, according to the state’s Information Minister.

Speaking to Eye Radio, Minister Wol Mayom said the fighting broke out at around 5:00 a.m. between three communities in Tonj South County, leaving casualties on both sides.

He said suspected armed youth from the Mabior Yar community and part of the Apukjuwiir section of Tarweng attacked the Thony community, triggering the violence.

“The deadly clashes are reported this morning in Tonj South. An attack carried out by suspected criminals from Mabior Yar community of Tonj South and part of Apukjuwiir sections of Tarweng,” he said.

“We heard they have attacked a community called Thony, part of Tonj South, and in the clashes 19 people reported killed both sides and 14 other wounded in the incident. 11 households were also reported burned to ashes while four claves were raided from the side of Thony community including those 11 houses,” he added.

Mayom said at least 11 houses were burned to ashes, while four calves were raided during the attack.

The Warrap State Government has condemned the attack and appealed for calm, assuring residents that those responsible will be brought to justice.

Mayom said Acting Governor Aluel Garang Garang directed the County Commissioner and security forces to respond immediately after the incident.

“It is actually condemned in strongest term possible by the government of Warrap State and when it happened, Acting Governor, Her Excellency Aluel Garang Garang directed the authorities, especially the County Commissioner and the security operators to rush into the scene,” he said.

However, he said poor road access prevented security personnel from reaching the area in time to contain the violence.

He urged communities to remain calm as authorities pursue those behind the attack.

“…we call for calm to prevail in the area. We are going to apprehend the culprit and bring them to book,” he said.