TONJ, WARRAP STATE – Warrap State government is relocating offices to Tonj region following reports of widespread inter-communal violence that claimed at least 30 lives in the area this week.
In a press statement, the government said it was “perturbed by barbaric and widespread” in Warrap State and particularly in the Tonj region.
It said Governor Bol Wek strongly condemns atrocities being committed against innocent people by enemies of peace in the state, while calling on armed youth to exercise restraint.
“The government of Warrap State is extremely upset by recent loss of lives in Tonj North and Tonj East counties and extends to the victims and bereaved families,” reads the statement.
“As an assurance, the government is now moving its seat to the scene of violence as alternative approach and will remain there until a permanent solution to the recurring violence is found in the affected areas.”
Warrap State has been plagued by chronic subnational violence characterized by revenge killings, cattle raiding and the presence of firearms in the hands of civilians.
In June, clashes between communities in Tonj East killed 62 people and wounded over 30 others.