Bentiu, Ryer/Thar Jath

April 1999

The government army, Matiep’s militia, and northern militia attacked the Machar force and Nuer civilians and occupied Thar Jath (Ryer). Fighting between Machar’s SSDF forces (commanded by Tito Biel) and Matiep’s SSUM forces over who would control the oil fields south of Bentiu. Displacement of populations north of Bentiu. Many left for Ruweng County during April and May 1999.
Perpetrator: GoS, Matiep’s militia, and northern militia
Reference: HRW 2003: 55, 197; Aktbilaga 640, p 90