About 71 people have reportedly been killed following armed clashes in Rumbek Town, Lakes State, early Friday morning, according to the South Sudan government.
The clashes broke out at approximately 4:00 a.m. on October 9, involving armed civilians and resulting in significant loss of life, the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services said in a statement issued on Friday.
The government said the reported death toll remains preliminary, with the exact number of fatalities and injuries yet to be verified.
Among those reported killed were four soldiers, including a captain and three non-commissioned officers.
Joint security forces comprising the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), the National Security Service (NSS) and the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) were deployed to contain the violence.
According to the ministry, government forces have brought the situation under control, and Rumbek Town remains under their control as efforts continue to restore normalcy and protect civilians and their property.
The government also reported that four armed civilians had been arrested and four firearms recovered.
The suspects and weapons were handed over to the SSPDF for further investigation and possible legal action.
Authorities urged communities in Lakes State to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid retaliatory attacks that could further escalate tensions.
The government expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
Further updates are expected as authorities obtain and verify additional information about the incident.
