National information ministry reports 71 killed in fresh Rumbek clashes
The Office of the Minister at South Sudan’s Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services says approximately 71 people were reportedly killed during violent clashes involving armed civilians in Rumbek Town, Lakes State, on Friday morning.
In a press statement dated October 9, the Office of the Minister said the clashes occurred at approximately 4 a.m., resulting in what it described as a “significant loss of life.”
“According to preliminary security reports, approximately 71 people are reported to have been killed, although the exact number of fatalities and injuries is yet to be verified,” the statement said.
The Office of the Minister added that four soldiers were among those reportedly killed, including a captain and three non-commissioned officers.
Following the violence, the government said it deployed joint security forces comprising the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), the National Security Service (NSS) and the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS).
“The Government has since intervened by deploying joint security forces … who have brought the situation under control,” the statement said.
The Office of the Minister further reported that Rumbek Town was under the control of government security forces, with efforts underway to restore normalcy and protect residents and their property.
“Rumbek Town is currently under the control of Government security forces,” the statement said, adding that authorities were continuing efforts to ensure “the safety and protection of civilians and their property.”
The statement also disclosed that four armed civilians had been arrested and four firearms recovered.
“The suspects and the recovered weapons are currently in the custody of the SSPDF for further investigation and appropriate legal action,” the Office of the Minister said.
The government condemned the violence and called on communities across Lakes State to remain calm and avoid actions that could trigger further clashes.
“The Government strongly condemns the violence and urges all communities in Lakes State to remain calm, exercise maximum restraint, and refrain from acts of retaliation that could further escalate tensions,” the statement said.
The Office of the Minister also expressed condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured,” the statement added.
The ministry said further updates would be communicated to the public as additional verified information became available.
The statement did not identify the groups involved in the clashes or explain what triggered the violence. The reported death toll also remains preliminary and has not been independently verified.
