40 killed in inter-clan clashes in Warrap state

September 10, 2014 (WONROCK) – Inter-clan fighting between the Luanyjang of
Wun-Thoc and Wun-Adel community in Tonj East county, located in South Sudan’s Warrap state, has claimed 40 lives and injured 60 others.

The clashes erupted between the two sections on Saturday when a girl eloped with a member of a rival section.

Speaking to Sudan Tribune on Wednesday, a resident from the area said a high profile state government delegation led by acting governor Akech Tong Aleu had visited the county on Tuesday following the outbreak of violence between the local communities.

State information minister Paul Dhel Gum said dozens of youth were who involved in attacking one another were arrested on Tuesday, with security organs continuing to search for other culprits believed to be connected to the incident.

Gum said both sides had used heavy machine guns during the fighting, including PKMs and AK-47s, adding the situation now appeared to be calm.

Gum said the state government has embarked on a heavy crackdown on those
suspected of participating in tribal violence and revenge killings.

“As the state government, we are calling for an end to such senseless conflict,” said Gum, warning that anyone found to be inflaming ethnic tensions would face heavy punishment.

He has urged both parties involved in the latest clashes to remain calm and refrain from further confrontation.

(ST)