JUBA – An 80-year-old man, Diew Gai Buong, was killed on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, in Gany Payam, Koch County, after being accused of witchcraft by members of his community.
According to reports, Buong, a well-known cattle herder in the Jagei community, was targeted due to these unsubstantiated accusations.
His son, Kume Diew Gai, confirmed the incident and stated that the family would not retaliate despite their grief.
“Yes, my father was killed due to witchcraft allegations, but we are controlling the situation to avoid revenge killings,” Kume said. “The person who killed him is a relative, and my father was not a witch doctor.”
Koch County Police inspector Brigadier General Tut Wal Dang confirmed that the perpetrators turned themselves in at the Gany Payam police station at approximately 5:30 PM on Tuesday.
“The suspects are known to us and are currently detained,” Dang said. “They accused the deceased of witchcraft against prominent community members. While we understand their beliefs, this constitutes a crime against humanity and will be handled according to South Sudan’s laws.”
The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of witchcraft accusations in South Sudan, which can sometimes lead to violence and even death.