The suspect, identified as Majok Tong Mayen, is accused of attacking and killing the child with a sharp hoe on Tuesday while villagers were working in their farms during the ongoing cultivation season.
According to Inspector Atem Deng Atem, the police officer in charge in Wunrok Payam, the tragic incident occurred during the daytime when most residents had gone to weed their crops, leaving some children at home.
Speaking to this publication by telephone on Thursday, Inspector Deng said the suspect, who is believed to be suffering from a mental disorder, suddenly attacked the child, identified as Majok Malaong, aged about two years.
“What transpired is that the baby was killed by a man who is believed to be mentally ill. He took a hoe and killed the baby boy identified as Majok Malaong at Majok-Adiang village in Wunrok Payam,” Deng said.
The officer said the child’s mother was reportedly away from home when the attack occurred, leaving the young boy vulnerable. News of the killing quickly spread throughout the village, sending shockwaves through the community and drawing large crowds to the scene.
Police officers later apprehended the suspect and placed him in custody at Wunrok police station, where investigations are ongoing.
Inspector Deng urged the family of the deceased to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
“We appeal to the relatives of the child to avoid taking the law into their own hands. The case is under investigation, and the law will serve the interests of the grieving family,” he said.
He also called on the relatives of the suspect to cooperate with authorities and maintain peaceful relations with the victim’s family as the investigation continues.
The police officer further advised parents and guardians to exercise greater caution when leaving young children unattended, especially in rural areas where vulnerable individuals may be living within communities.
“It is time to tell our people that hunger is not the only threat we face. Leaving young children alone at home can also expose them to danger, as this tragic incident has shown,” Deng cautioned.
The killing has once again drawn attention to the growing challenge of mental health in South Sudan, where years of conflict, economic hardship, displacement, and social instability have left many people struggling with psychological trauma and mental disorders.
Mental health services remain extremely limited across much of the country, with few specialised facilities and a shortage of trained professionals. As a result, many individuals suffering from mental illness go undiagnosed and untreated, often relying on family members or traditional support systems.
Health workers and counsellors have repeatedly encouraged communities to seek assistance for individuals showing signs of psychological distress, including social isolation, unusual behaviour, or severe emotional disturbances. In areas where professional counselling services are unavailable, community leaders, churches, and other local support structures often play an important role in providing emotional and spiritual support.
Community leaders in Twic County say the tragedy highlights the urgent need for greater awareness about mental health and stronger systems to protect vulnerable children.
Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing are continuing, and appropriate legal action will be taken once the inquiry is completed.
