Three killed in civilians-military clash, commissioner goes into hiding

At least three people died and one sustained serious injuries following a clash between civilians and the military in Ikwoto County, Eastern Equatoria State on Sunday.

According to authorities, the situation escalated for the worse after one of the soldiers was shot dead by an armed civilian in a bar.

The area paramount chief, Odongi Joseph told City Review that soldiers were deployed to Hai Turuju residential area after a shoot incident was reported from the area.

“The root cause of the clashes remains unclear and I believe quarrels between the civilians and the soldiers could be one of the main reasons,” Odongi told City Review.

“Immediately when they got one of their colleagues was shot they [soldiers] began to shoot at the civilians and three people were killed. One sustained injury.”

When contacted for comment, the commissioner of Ikwoto County David Lokolong said he had no information about the incident.

According to him, the incident happened while he was in the church for the prayers.

The commissioner has has gone into hiding for fear of being attacked by the angry armed youth.

Last week two boda-boda riders were killed and one injured by unknown armed men along Seretenya Ikwoto county.