Army soldier accused of killing 3 Syrians charged with first-degree murder

JUBA, FEBRUARY 28, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – South Sudan General Court Martial Tuesday charged PVT Yak Garang Yak attached with the Presidential guards with first-degree murder for killing three Syrian and a 15-year-old South Sudanese.

Private Garang was charged under section 206 of the South Sudan Penal Act 2008.

Garang was also found guilty of disobedience of lawful orders under section 67 of the SPLA Act 2009, and mischief committed after preparation made for causing death or hurt under section 327 of the South Sudan Penal Code 2008.

“Today, the court has found you guilty and charged you under the following articles, section 83 under SPLA Act 2009 read together section 206 under South Sudan Penal Code  2008 which is murder,” President of General Court Martial, Maj. Gen. Majok Michael Chan said while reading out the charges on Tuesday.

“The second charge is under section 83 (of SPLA Act 2009) read together 327 under South Sudan Penal Code 2008 for commandeering company’s vehicle and the third charge is under section 67 under SPLA Act 2009 for disobedience of orders.”

Garang pleaded guilty at a hearing Tuesday when asked by the President of the Court-Martial.

On 7th January 2023, Private Yak who has served in the army for 27 years killed three Syrian nationals and a 15-year-old South Sudanese in Akon village of Gogrial West in Warrap State.

Garang attached with the Presidential guards worked as a driver and security officer for CKM Construction Company which was hired to construct President Salva Kiir’s house in his home village of Akon.