Over 40 suspects arrested in connection to communal violence in Awerial County

More than 40 people suspected to have participated in the recent clashes between the Koc Achol Amal and Koc Wol clans in Awerial County of Lakes State have been arrested by police.

The clashes erupted on 17 February in the contested Makoi cattle camp in Awerial County.

William Koji Kirjok, Lakes State caretaker minister of information, said some of the suspects are on the run as security forces search for them.

“Many people have been arrested at random almost more than 40 and they have to undergo screening for those who were involved and those who were not,” William told The Juba Echo via phone interview from Rumbek on Monday.

He said the suspects found guilty will be held accountable for the violence.

William disclosed that calm has returned to the area, adding that Governor Rin Tueny Mabor is expected to travel to Awerial County on Tuesday to address the matter.

“The security is under control and the governor will go there tomorrow to make sure this problem doesn’t repeat again,” he said.

He warned youth against revenge, urging them to remain calm.

“Revenge is not allowed and the government is in full control of this state, nobody is allowed to go and do as he or she wishes,” William said.