By Yang Ater Yang
Authorities in Lakes State have arrested three soldiers in connection with the shooting of a passenger car in Rumbek East that resulted in the killing of a breastfeeding mother of a nine-month-old child last week.
William Koji Kerjok, the Acting Minister of Information and Communication and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports in Lakes State, confirmed the arrests during a press briefing.
“Two of them were from SSPDF of tiger unit, and one of them is from police. They were among those being deployed in Rumbek East, particularly in Pacong area, but very unfortunately, they were involved in such an incident,” he said.
Kerjok stated that the law will hold these individuals accountable for their actions.
“Lakes State, whatever you do wrong, you are not allowed to go free. The law is there to investigate and hold you accordingly, so it was a very unfortunate incident seeing our organized forces involved in shooting passengers passing by in Lakes State,” he said.
He noted that the location where the suspects are being held is a security matter, but assured that they will face trial in an appropriate court.
“Once the incident happened, it is the role of the government to make sure, the culprit or the wrongdoers are arrested and held accountable and the government has to make sure the suspects are tried by all means to make sure these people are arrested. This is the first step to be taken by the government,” he added.
“While the investigation and court proceedings will take time, it is important to note that the suspects are currently in custody.”
He urged the people of Lakes State to maintain peaceful coexistence.
“We must continue to foster harmony among ourselves and with neighbouring counties. Protecting our citizens, whether they are travelling at midnight or during the day, is the full responsibility of our organized forces. Such incidents of violence are unacceptable and should not be tolerated.” The Minister advised.
Civil society activist Daniel Laat Kon commended the government for apprehending those responsible for the shooting of the mother in Rumbek East, highlighting the importance of accountability in maintaining public safety.