Lou Nuer White Army - Courtesy

More than 50 people have been killed in ethnic violence between armed youth from the administrative area and Jonglei State, local authorities have confirmed.

The inter-communal conflict believed to have been carried out by armed youth from the neighboring Jonglei State has also wounded 17 others.

Pibor Information Minister Abraham Kelang Jiji says the fighting first erupted in Lanam village before escalating and advancing towards Gumuruk town and Kongore Payam of Lekuangole County.

Kelang said the casualties are armed youth from both sides.

This comes barely a few days after the United Nations Mission in South Sudan warned of violence following mobilization and preparation for an attack by armed youth and militia groups from the two areas.

Speaking to Eye Radio Tuesday morning from Pibor town, Minister Kelang says the wounded are currently receiving treatment in Gumuruk town.

“Conflict started yesterday [26th December 2022] in Gumuruk town and also at the same time in Kongor in Likwangole County. This fighting ended in the evening time,” Kelang said.

“The fight started again in the morning at 700 AM in Gumuruk. The update of the causalities both in Gumuruk town is 56 death, while 17 injuries are in town currently in Gumuruk.”

Last week, The United Nations Mission in South Sudan warned of threats of mass attacks following a report of the mobilization of armed youth in the Greater Jonglei area.

In a press release sent to Eye Radio on Wednesday, the UN says such mobilizations could possibly result in violent attacks that can gravely impact the civilian population.