The governor of Western Equatoria State has called for arrest of individuals suspected of killing people and burning houses during a random shooting in Maridi town on Monday.

Officials say three civilians and a soldier have now been confirmed dead.

The SPLA says the shooting started after a grenade attack on a cattle camp near the town on Sunday. 7 cows were killed in the incident.

Spokesman Col Philip Aguer says the community around the camp then reacted by shooting and burning houses and shops.

He told Eye Radio that forces were deployed to maintain security.

But in a statement, the state governor, Joseph Bakosoro, says no one has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

He says the SPLA should also disarm civilians in the state to avoid further armed violence.

“Those who have burned houses – no one has been arrested. It is a nightmare for me and it is a worry that, then who is under the law and who is above the law?” Said Mr Bakosoro.

“If I commit a crime today, immediately I will be arrested. So I am appealing to the military authorities that they are the only ones who are authorized to handle guns in the public.”

The executive director in the county, John Ezkia Paul, says the situation is now calm in the area.

He told Eye Radio that some displaced people have started returning to their homes.