Security officers shot protesters with live bullets in a demonstration against gov’t decree in Malakal.

According to the Upper Nile state police commissioner, when protesters and security forces battled in Malakal, the capital of the Upper Nile state, on Monday morning, at least six people—including a woman—were murdered and at least nine others—including a police officer—were injured.

According to Eye Radio, more than 200 people—the majority of them government employees—took to the streets of Malakal town to demonstrate against a government decree that would transfer them to counties and other local administrative units.

The police commissioner, Major General Chol Atem, explained what had taken place: “There was a rally in Malakal town, and during the demonstration, some of the demonstrators hurled stones at the organized force.”

According to the senior police official, “two ladies and six males, and one of them [38-year-old Achol Gabriel Amum] died” were among the “eight victims who were hurt by the live bullets.”

One of the security personnel was hurt, according to General Achol Atem.

He said, “One of the police forces was hit in the head with a stone that was thrown, and another from national security was hit in the leg.”