Local authorities in South Sudan’s Lakes State said a civil disarmament exercise is going well in the state, saying it is proceeding without violence.

The Lakes State Minister of Information Dhieu Kuol told Radio Tamazuj that over 600 firearms have been collected so far and that the government is pursuing some wanted criminal suspects.

He said they are still waiting for the arrival of forces that will collect firearms across the counties. He pointed out that the collection of firearms started in Rumbek Centre, North, East and Cueibet is still ongoing.

The official added that cattle raiders and killers will be apprehended during the disarmament operation in the state.

Separately it is reported that at least nine people were killed in recent cattle raids in Yirol West and Rumbek East counties, including on 13 and 15 November in Yirol West County, and last week in Wunabyei of Rumbek East County.