![Map of Eastern Equatoria state in red [Photo via Wikipedia]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/1200px-Eastern_Equatoria_Map.svg_.png?resize=1024%2C743&quality=80&ssl=1)
The victim, identified as Wagen, was allegedly targeted after a bar owner accused him of using magic to paralyze her leg when she refused to serve him alcohol.
This accusation led local youth to detain Wagen and subject him to violent punishment, ultimately resulting in his death on January 5.
“On January 5, he was accused of being a wizard. He was beaten, burned with fire, and plastic was melted on his body. Eventually, he died,” Ikotos County Executive Director Tito Abas told 97.5 FM on Friday morning.
“It was a case of mob justice. The police are still searching for others involved. Whether the accusations are true or not, people should not take the law into their own hands,” he added.
Police Inspector Gabriel Arok confirmed the arrest of the five suspects, who are currently in custody awaiting trial.
Authorities are continuing their search for additional suspects linked to the attack.
“The suspects, including the woman who made the accusation and her husband, are being held in custody. They will face justice. Our work is to ensure that all those involved are brought to account,” Arol said.
Eastern Equatoria State lawmaker Muras Chacha, who represents Ikotos County under the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Government (SPLM-IG), condemned the killing and urged the public to avoid mob justice.
“This is a primitive way of addressing issues. Witchcraft is defined in the legal system, and if someone is sick, they should seek medical attention rather than resorting to violence,” Chacha said. “I strongly condemn this act. It is backward and wrong.”
Last year, similar incidents occurred in Chahari and Tsertenya, where three people suspected of witchcraft were killed in mob attacks.
Police have urged communities to report suspicions to law enforcement and avoid taking matters into their own hands.
