According to community leaders, the violence erupted after a fight between two girls—one from Leer County and another from Rubkonta County—spiralled into a broader confrontation between rival youth groups.
Matiek Banghuot, the Adok Community Chairperson, told Sudans Post on Wednesday that the incident quickly escalated when youths from Rubkonta reportedly attacked the girl from Leer County, prompting retaliation from her community.
“Yes, four of those killed are from Leer County. One of them was a Senior Four student expected to sit for exams this year. Sadly, he lost his life at a very young age,” Banghuot said.
“The remaining three were young men. Even though they were known gang members, it’s still a great loss for us as the Dok community,” he added.
Banghuot explained that one person was killed on Tuesday when police tried to intervene, while five others died on Wednesday as the violence intensified. At least 10 others were injured during the clashes.
He said police were deployed to the area after reports of escalating violence, but struggled to contain the fighting until later in the day when order was restored.
“The situation is now under control. The police have taken charge of security within the PoC,” Banghuot noted.
Meanwhile, the South Sudan National Police Service spokesperson, Brig. Gen. James Monday Enoka confirmed the incident but said details were still being compiled.
“I can confirm the fighting that occurred at the PoC site, but I have yet to receive full details regarding the number of people killed or injured. The security committee will brief me once I reach the office,” he said.
The PoC sites, originally established by the United Nations to protect civilians during the civil conflict, have in recent years faced growing concerns over gang violence and insecurity among resident youth groups.
