Fresh shooting erupted this morning in Maridi town in Western Equatoria State. It is uncertain at this stage who was involved in the shooting.

The shooting started this morning at 7:30 at the area of Souk Rumbek and spread to the area of Hai Gabete. Sources reported deaths in that area but could not yet confirm the number.

Some civilians fled their homes to the bush, according to an eyewitness.

In June, clashes broke out in the area between Dinka pastoralists and local residents. At least nine people and seven cattle were killed in those events and thousands fled their homes.

Since then the situation in the town had been returning to normal and many civilians who had fled to Yambio or other areas returned home.

Photo: Streets of Maridi largely emptied after the sound of gunfire was heard this morning