Over 70 houses burnt in Lakes state dispute

July 16, 2015 (RUMBEK) – More than 70 houses were set on fire Wednesday by pastoralists in Lakes state’s Rumbek Central county, officials and eyewitnesses said.

The incident reportedly occurred when youth from Pakam and Kuei assaulted their counterparts from Panyon in what is believed to be a revenge attack.

“One person identified as Manyang Gum sustained gunshot wounds, an old man killed in crossfire and several houses got burnt when Pakam and Kuei youth overran Cueiadukan,” said an eyewitness.

A Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officer, who asked not to be named, confirmed clashes between the rival youth.

“75 houses belonging to Panyon section in Cueiadukan were burnt to ashes. All goats and goods were also looted and thousands of people were displaced”, said the officer.

Meanwhile, Lakes state caretaker governor, Matur Chut Dhuol sacked his deputy, Santo Chol and replaced him with Mabor Kuer. Also sacked in a separate decree was local government minister, Jok Ayom Majak who was succeeded by Samuel Maciek.

Activists have, however, said the new changes will not improve the state administration.

(ST).