Authorities in Pibor County in Jonglei state say the county is under attack allegedly by armed youth from the Lou Nuer and Yau Yau militias.

Pibor County Commission Joshua Konyi said the fighting between Lou Nuer and Murle Youth started four days ago.

Konyi said that the Lou youth are now heading toward Lokwangule Payam in the county:

“We believe they are close to Lokwangule Payam; they are coming to us here in Pibor and we also are still in conflict with Yau Yau.’’

However, Akobo Commissioner Koang Rambang said that allegations about fighting between armed youth are incorrect.

“My Youth just returned, I think, about four days ago from Sobat Corridor where they went and brought the remnant of our cows that were looted in February 8th where about 100 people were killed by the elements of Yau Yau.

“So, our youth are here; they are busy farming and keeping an eye on the remnants of these animals here. That is what I know.

“If there is anybody from Akobo that has moved out of Akobo, heading towards Pibor, I don’t know.

“I just came from celebrating the Independence Day now; all the community leaders including the youth’s leaders were present.

“So, if they are going, who is taking them there? I think there is something these people are doing behind us and they want to cover it up that.”

Meanwhile, SPLA spokesperson Colonel Philip Aguer told Eye Radio that he has not heard any reports of recent fighting.

“I don’t have any information about this news and this is the first time to hear this. But it is not a good thing and it’s really painful in our hearts because we are celebrating the second independence anniversary.

“We should try to put our efforts to stop the death by all means.”

In June, the UN refugee agency said that tens of thousands of people have been displaced in Jonglei state, because of the fighting between the government and rebel forces.