Eight killed in revenge attacks in Kapoeta

At least eight people, including three women, were killed and another person injured in revenge attacks between the Buya and Toposa communities in Kapoeta State between July and September, a senior official said. Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, the Kapoeta State governor, Louis Lobong Lojore accused armed youth in Imatong and Riwoto Counties of carrying out revenge attacks, killing innocent civilians.  “What happened in Kapoeta is not a conflict between the Toposa community as a whole, but a section from the village of Lomen and a group from the Buya community who have been engaged in reprisal fighting from July to September,” he explained. He confirmed that at least eight people from both sides were killed in what is believed to be revenge attacks in Imatong and Riwoto Counties. Radio Tamazuj could not independently verify the governor's report. Governor Lobong admitted the relevant authorities’ failure to contain the clashes that erupted between the two sides, citing the lack of regular forces. He said most civilians are armed and that they plan to reconcile the two feuding communities. According to the state governor, a peace and reconciliation conference between the two communities will take place soon. He urged the feuding communities in the state to embrace peace, unity and harmony. According to reports, the routine of revenge attacks in many parts of South Sudan prevails due to lack of an efficient justice system.