Investigations into killing of Western Equatoria trader, teacher complete – gov’t

YAMBIO, OCTOBER 4, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – South Sudan authorities in Western Equatoria State on Saturday announced that investigations into the killing of local trader Justin Agbiamamu and unidentified teacher have been completed and suspects were awaiting trial.

Agbiamamu, 53, was allegedly shot dead by two South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) soldiers in the state capital Yambio during the evening hours of August 30, 2023. The deceased who was also a local chief was heading to his farm in Ganguru Payam and his body burnt following his killing.

On September 3, 2023, security forces in Western Equatoria arrested the two SSPDF soldiers in connection with the killing. Yambio Commissioner Mbiko Barakat said on Saturday that both soldiers were awaiting trials.

“That means we arrest the suspect, prosecute them; there is not an isolated incident here. Somebody who was killed in Gangura Payam was a trader and chief and suspects are in custody waiting for trial,” he said.

He said the suspects will soon be arraigned in court as 95 percent of the investigation has been completed. He said other suspects who are also accused of killing a 65-year-old teacher will all be arranged in court along the SSPDF soldiers.

“One teacher who was killed here, 65-year-old, all the suspects were arrested, and all the investigation is almost done, almost 95 percent, they are just waiting for trial and somebody who shot up a gun yesterday was also arrested,” he said.

On September 23, 2023, Anthony Bangodi, a talented traditional singer, and primary school teacher, was beaten to death at night in his residence in Yambio town after demanding debts dispute.

According to witness accounts, the deceased previously sent the suspect to sell his items worth SSP 400,000 in neighboring Ezo County.

The killer reportedly refused to pay the money, prompting the deceased to threaten to sue him in court.

Following the quarrel, the accused reportedly hit the teacher to death with a block.

Barakat said that despite these incidents, the security situation is relatively calm.

“I can assure you on behalf of other people that the state is a bit calm and in particular Yambio County, all the accidents which are happening here are under control,” he said.

“Even everywhere in the world, somebody can be killed, and we don’t entertain that one but the good thing in Yambio is any killing that happens in Yambio is being controlled,” he added.