At least seven individuals lost their lives and 15 more sustained injuries during armed confrontations between the Manuer and Gak sections of the Pakam community in Rumbek North County, Lakes State, according to state officials on Tuesday.
The violence broke out in Maper, the county headquarters, on Monday following the fatal shooting of a young motorcycle taxi (boda boda) rider.
Authorities characterized the incident as part of an ongoing pattern of retaliatory attacks.
William Koji Kirjok, acting Minister of Information and Communication for Lakes State, said that armed youths from the two sections engaged in fighting after the initial killing.
“One youth shot another dead on the spot, and the incident escalated into fighting between armed youths from the Gak and Manuer sections,” Kirjok explained.
“As a result, seven people were killed and 15 others injured.”
He reported that state authorities, security personnel, the county commissioner, and other stakeholders quickly stepped in to separate the groups and restore order.
“The situation is now under control with the help of state leadership, the county commissioner and other stakeholders who are engaging community leaders from both sides,” he added.
Kirjok noted that revenge killings have persisted as a major challenge in Rumbek North despite repeated peace dialogues and security measures.
He said suspects connected to the latest violence are still at large. He also expressed worry about movements of armed youths near the border between Rumbek North and Panyijiar County in neighboring Unity State, although no additional clashes had occurred since Monday.
At Rumbek State Hospital, Medical Director Dr. Terran Madit Terran confirmed the facility admitted casualties from the clashes early Tuesday.
“We received 10 patients with gunshot wounds to the chest, abdomen and limbs,” he stated.
“Three of them were severely injured and have already undergone surgery.”
Dr. Terran indicated that some patients with fractures might need referral to other medical centers for specialized care once their condition stabilizes.
