An official in Eastern Equatoria says an investigation has started into the recent killing of at least 16 civilians in Budi County.

16 people were reportedly killed and 40 houses burnt down in inter-communal violence in Ng’auro payam two weeks ago.

The Security Advisor to the Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Claudio Seleman, told Eye Radio an investigation team has been sent to the scene of the incident to try to ascertain the cause of the killings and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“We have deployed about 32 police to protect the area,” Mr Seleman explained.

“People have started to come back to their settlements and the committee is going to go back there and continue finding.

“The government, of course, is trying to identify the culprits so that they can be brought to book.”

Mr. Seleman said the investigating team has already identified suspects who will soon be brought to face the law.

He advised members of the clashing communities not to circulate and not to rely on rumors.