Security forces deployed in Kunyjuk after two killed in violent land dispute

AWEIL – The State Government in South Sudan’s Northern Bahr el Ghazal have deployed heavily armed security forces to Kunyjuk village in Yargot Payam of Aweil East County following a violent land dispute that left two prominent community members, including a local chief, dead.

The deployment comes amid fears of retaliatory attacks between members of the Paliec and Pariath clans after the killing of a local chief, Garang Khon Deng, and an intellectual who had been working in Juba.

Authorities say the situation remains tense, with concerns that unresolved grievances could trigger further violence if not swiftly contained.

The state police spokesperson, Madut Ngong Aleu, confirmed on Tuesday that the decision to send additional forces was taken as a precautionary measure to prevent revenge killings and restore calm in the area.

“We have deployed enough armed security forces following the visit of Governor Charles to the scene on Sunday. The forces are now on the ground, and no further attacks or incidents have been reported,” Ngong said.

According to police, the violence erupted during what was initially described as a relatives’ meeting convened by the late Garang to address a longstanding land dispute. The situation, however, spiralled out of control, resulting in deadly clashes that shocked residents across Aweil East County and beyond.

Ngong noted that tensions remain high, as some community members continue to circulate rumours and make inflammatory statements that could reignite the conflict. He urged residents to refrain from incitement and allow the legal process to take its course.

“Our people need to understand that what happened has already occurred and cannot be undone. We must now allow the law to handle the matter,” he cautioned.

The police spokesperson warned that anyone found spreading rumours or inciting violence would face legal consequences, emphasising that the incident was not premeditated but escalated unexpectedly during a meeting intended to resolve differences.

Residents in Aweil East and across Northern Bahr el Ghazal have since appealed for calm, stressing that land disputes should be addressed through customary chiefs and statutory courts rather than through violence. Community leaders say restoring trust and preventing further bloodshed will require cooperation between security forces, local authorities, and clan elders.

Authorities maintain that the situation is currently under control, but security personnel will remain in Kunyjuk until tensions fully subside.