SSPDF soldier shoots colleague over stolen motorcycle dispute in Warrap

WUNROK – A South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) officer on Monday shot and injured his colleague in Wunrok Payam of Twic County in Warrap State, following a dispute over a stolen motorcycle, police said.

Twic County Police Inspector Abdullah Deng Mou told Sudans Post yesterday that the incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. at Wunrok market after an argument between the two soldiers escalated.

The victim, identified as Manut Ayuel, 33, was shot in both legs by his colleague, Mariak Ayieng, 36, who is now in custody.

According to Mou, the altercation began when Manut, who had previously purchased the motorcycle from Mariak, discovered it was stolen and became embroiled in a legal case.

Authorities had instructed Manut to bring Mariak to court to clarify the matter. However, Mariak refused and, during a heated exchange, shot Manut.

“The SSPDF officer, Mariak, sold the bike to his cousin, Manut Ayuel. When it was discovered that the bike was stolen property, the buyer was held accountable,” Mou said.

“Manut tried to bring Mariak to the police to resolve the issue, but Mariak refused, fired three bullets at him, and left him unconscious with gunshot wounds to both legs,” he said.

Manut was rushed to St. Theresa Hospital in Turalei for treatment. The perpetrator, Mariak, is being held by authorities and is under interrogation.

Inspector Mou urged the public to resolve disputes peacefully, particularly given the economic challenges facing many in the community.

“The public should exercise restraint and avoid letting tensions escalate to violence,” Mou said.