South Sudan: Intercommunal clashes kill five in Lakes State September 24

Event

At least five people have been killed during intercommunal clashes which began on Thursday, September 24, between the Pagok and Ayiel sections of the Gok community. Media reports indicate that fighting was ongoing and had moved to areas outside of Cueibet County (Gok). On Friday, September 25, morning clashes continued in Agangrial. The clashes reportedly occurred following a cattle raid which took place on Thursday; armed youth from the Ayiel section reportedly raided cattle from the Guaru cattle camp and killed at least one person from Pagok section.

Further violence in the area in the near term should be anticipated.

Context

South Sudan has been wracked by years of political, interethnic, and intercommunal violence amid the country's long civil war.

Advice

Due to the high threat of intercommunal conflict and violent crime, all travel to South Sudan should be subject to a thorough localized threat assessment and undertaken in coordination with a trusted security provider. Members are advised to subject all travel, particularly to remote and rural areas, to strict journey management protocols. Avoid travel at night, vary routines, and maintain a heightened sense of situational awareness. Monitor local media sources to remain apprised of security-related developments and adhere to any directives issued by local authorities.