By Deng Ghai Deng
June 6, 2025 – At least 13 people have been confirmed dead and more than two dozen injured in ongoing communal clashes between the Hol community from Duk County and the Ayual community of Twic East County. The violence erupted on Wednesday over Bioth-Agany Fishing Island, a disputed area claimed by Twic East County.
According to Twic East County Commissioner Juach Arok Juach, the attack was allegedly carried out by armed youth from Duk County. Speaking Friday, Commissioner Juach reported seven confirmed fatalities, seven injuries, and four individuals still missing.
“The updated information we have this morning is that we have lost seven people, seven others are injured, and four are missing,” Juach stated. “The Hol attackers remain in Bioth-Agany, and while the situation remains tense, authorities are doing their best to deescalate the clashes.”
Duk County Commissioner John Chatim also confirmed that six individuals from his county were killed and 14 others sustained injuries in the fighting. “We have lost six people, and 14 others have sustained injuries. This violence must stop so that the government can carry out investigations and bring those responsible to justice,” Chatim said.
Simon Hoth Dual, Jonglei State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement — who is currently serving as acting governor — said efforts are underway to deploy joint security forces to the conflict zone.
“We are mobilizing security forces, including the police, army, wildlife, and prison service personnel,” said Hoth. “However, we are currently facing logistical challenges, particularly in securing a boat to transport the forces to the scene. We hope to send them soon to stabilize the situation.”
Authorities suspect the attack may be linked to the unresolved death of Deng Dau, also known as Deng-Moradong — a popular local wrestler who was killed under mysterious circumstances in October 2023. His death was allegedly connected to armed youth from Duk County, which has fueled tensions between the communities ever since.