At least six people were confirmed dead, nine houses torched, and an unknown number of people injured in revenge attacks in Leer County of South Sudan’s Unity State last Thursday. 

The clashes between armed youth from Leer and Mayiendit counties started on Wednesday when Mayiendit youth took their cattle for sale in Leer but they clashed with Leer youth.

One person was killed in the Wednesday attack, leading to further attacks on Thursday which claimed about five lives.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday, Unity State minister of information and communication Hon Gabriel Makuei Bol said tensions remained high amongst the youth. 

“I have heard of five people killed in clashes from both sides on Thursday following the killing of one person from Mayiendit County which was triggered by the fighting on Wednesday,” he said.

He added that many people were wounded but the number was still not established and nine houses were burned down nine in Leer County 

“It was triggered by the youth who took their cows from Mayiendit to Leer County for auction there. There is a marketplace at the border between Mayiendit and Leer County,” Gabriel said. “So, when the youth went there for their cattle to be sold there, they were intimidated by some youth from Leer County, and then they clashed. One person from Mayiendit County was killed. The following day Mayindit youth went to Leer County for revenge.” 

According to the minister, the two counties are inaccessible making it difficult for the state government to send troops to prevent further hostilities. 

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By: Radio Tamazuj