5 confirmed dead as SSPDF, armed youth clash in Lakes state

JUBA – At least five people including two South Sudan army soldiers have been confirmed killed following the outbreak of fierce clashes between members of South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and armed youth in Lakes State’s Cueibet County, a police spokesman has said.

Captain Elijah Mabor Makuac, Lakes State police spokesman, told Sudans Post in an exclusive interview this afternoon that the armed youth are a group of many criminals wanted by state authorities for various crimes and were resisting arrest.

He said when security forces arrived in the area, they were quick to shoot to resist arrest, resulting in the killing of three members of the criminal group and two members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces.

“The group of notorious criminals wanted for atrocities they have committed clashed with security forces yesterday and 2 people were killed from security forces and 3 from side of the criminals including the ring leader himself,” he said.

The Lakes state police spokesman further said the clashes left two soldiers wounded, who he said are now receiving treatment at Rumbek hospital.

“Also two soldiers were wounded and they have been admitted at Rumbek State Hospital and are undergoing medication,” Mabor said.