Two killed after brawl in South Sudanese capital

October 13, 2013 (JUBA) – At least two people died and many others were wounded on Sunday after a fight involving members of two South Sudanese communities in the capital, Juba.

The incident occurred in an area adjacent to New Site and Bilpam military headquarters, which is mainly inhabited by members of the Nuer and Dinka communities; two of the country’s largest communities.

Eye witnesses told Sudan Tribune that two people were confirmed dead and many others wounded when members of the two communities clashed with sticks and batons, then limited use of rifles.

Although there are conflicting reports about the cause of the incident, eyewitnesses said it started when members of the Dinka community argued with a Nuer businessman during which they beat up the latter.

The Nuer community then responded to rescue their beaten colleague, resulting into a fight before the military police could intervene to separate the two rivals, an eye witnesses told Sudan Tribune.

A source from the military police, however, said one Dinka man was beaten to death during the scuffle while another reportedly died of gunshot wounds.

A number of Nuer community members were reportedly also wounded during the incident.

The initially tense situation is reportedly now under full control of the military police, who have occupied the area.

(ST)