Violence between armed civilians and soldiers has forced the closure of at least twelve schools in Rual-bet area of Tonj North County, Warrap state.
Two weeks ago, 28 people were killed, including armed civilians, SSPDF Chief of Military Intelligence, Majors and Captains, 3 commanders, and the former Commissioner of Mayen Jur of the defunct Gogrial State in Rual-bet Payam.
The skirmishes were reportedly triggered by a disarmament exercise in Arul village.
This has forced the indefinite closure of primary schools in the entire Payam.
The County Education Director Mayiik Kuot said the population has been displaced to Akop, Marial-lou, Kirik and other Payams.
He is not sure when schools will reopen due to security uncertainties.
“Unless there are changes from the government, schools won’t open. Unless the government takes lead in security maintenance in the area for the safe reopening of the schools,” Mr. Kuot stated.
He disclosed that schools in areas such as Mayen Kuel, Maluildit, Yar-Arol, Aduany have also temporarily closed.
“It is only the government that can contain this security situation. All the buildings and the learning materials are safe.”
The Acting Director General in the State Ministry of Local Government said security forces have been deployed in the area. Aurelio Anyuc Deng called on the population to cooperate with the organized forces on ground to restore security in the restive area.
“Forces are already in the area including acting governor and Minister of Cabinet Affairs is now based in Warrap town. All is to rescue the security situation. So, citizens should be patient as the government is working on the matter,” he mentioned.
On Thursday, Warrap state legislative assembly condemned the incident calling for investigations into the root causes of the cashes.