(JONGLEI STATE, TWIC EAST AND DUK COUNTIES) – Local authorities in Jonglei State have raised major concerns regarding the resurgence of intercommunal violence affecting vital fishing grounds located along the administrative borders of Twic East and Duk counties. This escalation in hostilities poses a direct threat to the stability of local trade and the livelihoods of fishing communities that rely on these areas for their primary income.
The most recent incident occurred on Monday, marking a major increase in tensions just weeks after a separate clash resulted in over twelve deaths. The primary dispute involves the ownership of Miny fishing island, a resource rich location that remains a focal point of disagreement between communities in the two neighboring counties.
James Magok Mabiei, the Commissioner of Twic East County, described the security environment as fragile. He noted that the conflict has expanded, with groups reportedly gaining control over the Aliey fishing village in Lith Payam. Local officials have confirmed that a resident named Dut Deng Atem was taken captive during the incident. Due to a lack of communication infrastructure in the remote border region, authorities currently lack a verified count of casualties, although fears of further loss of life remain high.
The impact of this insecurity on the regional economy is substantial. These fishing grounds serve as a critical supply chain for local markets. Continued instability prevents regular fishing activities and trade, which limits the flow of goods and impacts the economic well being of the broader Jonglei region.
Commissioner Mabiei has called for an immediate end to the violence and requested that leadership at the state and national levels intervene to restore order. He emphasized that resolving these disputes through formal dialogue is necessary to protect the economic interests of the people.
John Chatim Ruei, the Commissioner of Duk County, officially condemned the actions of the youth involved in the attack. He requested that they withdraw from the occupied village to facilitate the return of displaced residents and to create the necessary conditions for peace talks. Commissioner Ruei also called for the safe release of the captive fisherman to his family.
Persistent disputes between youth from Duk and Twic East counties have occurred for three years. While government forces previously stated their intention to deploy to these areas to maintain order, local leaders suggest that a more permanent and effective intervention is required. The ongoing uncertainty continues to hinder efforts to establish a secure environment for the fishing industry in Jonglei.