Authorities in Jonglei State say they are preparing to deploy security forces to Bioth-agany fishing island to de-escalate tensions following clashes between the Ayual community of Twic East and the Hol of Duk County.
The fighting which erupted on Wednesday, left 13 people dead and many others injured from both sides.
Simon Hoth Duol, Jonglei’s Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement, said the state hasmobilized forces to restore calm in the area.
“We are now working on deploying the security forces. We’ve gathered them and will soon send them to the conflict zone,” said Dual.
He expressed that a lack of logistical support is slowing down their response, but efforts are underway to address the issue.
The minister also confirmed that those injured during the clashes are receiving treatment at various health centres.
He said the state governor is in close communication with the Chief of Defense Forces, coordinating efforts to help de-escalate tension on the ground.
Duol dismissed reports on social media that SPLM-IO forces were fighting alongside Hol, calling the claims baseless.
Authorities suspect the attack may be linked to theunresolved death of Deng Dau, also known as Deng Moradong a popular Twic East wrestler who was killed in October 2023.
His death was allegedly connected to armed youth from Duk County, which fueled tensions between the two communities.