The incident occurred during a cattle raid, according to Unity State Police Spokesperson John Malieth.
“The suspect came out of his house to confirm who the attackers were,” Malieth said. “He opened fire, believing he was shooting at the raiders. Unfortunately, he accidentally shot and killed his friend who had come to assist him.”
The victim, a 28-year-old man working for a subcontractor of the Greater Nile Petroleum Operating Company (GNPOC), was initially injured in the incident.
He was transferred to Juba for medical treatment on Friday but succumbed to his injuries the following day.
“The investigation will be conducted after a three-day mourning period,” Malieth said. “The deceased’s family will then provide the police with further details about the incident.”
The incident took place at the oilfield while local authorities were relocating cattle due to flooding in southern Rubkona County.