Nineteen people suspected of killing women and children in ethnic clashes in Eastern Equatoria State last year have escaped from police custody.

State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore discovered they have escaped when he visited the police stations and prisons over the weekend.

Mr Lobong says he visited the police cells to find out why the suspects were not taken to the Torit prison for detention.

“This is a very unfortunate incident in the history of this state,” said Governor Lobong.

“It is also a blow to decentralization policy where sons and daughters from that particular local government are supposed to administer justice and enforce law.

“It is also a shame as an organization because as people the criminal or suspect escape without the notice of the police from very well built cells.”

He says tribalism is the cause of the escape of the suspects.

Mr Lobong says a lot of resources were spent to stop the fighting and deliver justice to the victims.

“The purpose was to bring justice, to prevent revenge and counter-revenge, to bring law and order,” he added.

“Unfortunately because of tribalism and nepotism the people have been released. For us it is intentional release because there is no where people can escape in such a prison.”

Mr Lobong calls on the Idali and the Loroyo communities to restrain from violence and remain calm at their villages.

He says suspects who have escaped will be arrested again and tried in court.