By Yang Ater
A 15-year-old girl, Nyanhok Mabor Nyingau, took her own life by hanging in Tit-hok village, Aluakluak Payam of Yirol West County, Lakes state.
The incident occurred early this month at around 7 PM, following a quarrel with her parents, according to Lakes State police spokesman Maj. Elijah Mabor Makuac.
He stated that the girl’s body was recovered and subsequently buried in Aluakluak Payam. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is ongoing, with police interviewing her family.
Dr. Terran Madit, one of the doctors at Rumbek Hospital expressed concern about the rising number of suicide cases in Lakes State, particularly among teenagers.
He noted that various factors contribute to these decisions, including pressures from family arrangements, such as forced marriages, which can leave young individuals feeling trapped.
“The girl sees there is no way out to solve this issue. Maybe she wants to continue with her studies or maybe she had another one whom she wants to marry while the family are forcing her to do other things and these are some of the things that lead to such a decision of committing suicide,” he said.
He added that addiction to substances or psychological disturbances can also play a role in these incidents, adding that the increase in suicides is alarming compared to previous years.
Isaac Luka Manga, the Minister of Cooperative and Rural Development in Lakes State called for urgent action from the government and international organizations to address the alarming rise in suicides, particularly in Wulu County.
“The Beli community is experiencing a troubling spike in suicide cases. We urge the government and NGOs to intervene and help us understand and mitigate these issues,” he said.
“We are losing our loved ones at an alarming rate, and we need a collective effort to tackle this crisis.”
Manga said there is a need for mental health support and awareness programs to address the underlying issues contributing to the tragedies.
He noted that between 2020 and 2024, suicide cases have steadily increased, affecting families in Wulu County.
“Since 2020, we have lost approximately 24 individuals to suicide, with many survivors lacking psychological support,” he stated.
“These losses are often due to minor issues like poverty, domestic violence, and forced marriages. We need a coordinated response from the government and community leaders to address these challenges.”
The minister reported that suicide incidents are most prevalent in Demulato, Wulu, and Bargel Payams, with occurrences every two to three weeks.
He urged for more data collection and support systems for both victims and families to prevent further tragedies.