Deadly violence between two groups of asylum seekers claims 14 lives in Kakuma

An injured asylum seeker at Kakuma Mission Hospital in Turkana County. [Bakari An'ela, Standard]

At least 14 people are feared dead following clashes between two South Sudanese communities being hosted at Kakuma refugee camp in Turkana County.

The violence between Nuer and Anyuak that has also seen several people wounded, erupted on Tuesday last week. Most of the injured are being treated in various health facilities in Turkana West.

Turkana County Commander Daniel Kinyua confirmed the incident. "It is unfortunate we lost people in the conflict between the Nuer and Anyuak clans. We confirm 14 people have died with some succumbing to injuries while in hospital. We have deployed more officers to the camp," said Mr Kinyua.

Witnesses said tension had been brewing at the camp before the deadly attacks.

Yesterday, government officials said security had been beefed up at the refugee camp to thwart revenge attacks and stop further bloodshed.

Edwin Chabari, the Kakuma Refugee camp manager called for calm and urged the communities to seek peaceful resolutions to their disputes.

"We are all here seeking safety and a better life. Violence only undermines our common goals," Chabari said.

He said a team of health personnel have been assisting the injured who sustained deep cuts. Some were rushed to Lodwar County Referral Hospital by their families.

Chabari said efforts by community elders to mediate and prevent further conflict were underway.

Turkana West Deputy County Commissioner Yussuf Salat said security officials had been deployed to maintain order and restore calm in the camp. "Our priority is to restore peace and prevent loss of life."

Following the violence, some refugees sought refuge at the local police post, fearing for their safety. Others, according to reports, were taken in by members of the host communities, who have offered shelter and support to the displaced.

"I heard screams and saw people running. I grabbed my children and ran to the nearby police post. We don't feel safe in our homes anymore," said Mary Nyaruach, a refugee.

Another refugee, Peter Gatwech, said the current situation at the camp had made things worse for asylum seekers who arrived in Kakuma in pursuit of a safe and peaceful environment.

"We need to come together and find a way to live in peace. Our children are watching and learning from us," Gatwech said.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees head of sub-office Nanduri Sateesh expressed concern over the violence and called for thorough investigation into the incident.

"The safety and security of all refugees in the camp must be ensured," he said.

Sateesh said the organization had offered its support in mediating between the two communities and assisting in efforts to restore peace.