Warrap police detain sub-chief for killing brother over cattle dispute

KUAJOK – Police in South Sudan’s Warrap State have detained a sub-chief accused of killing his brother during a dispute over cattle in Turalei Payam of Twic County. The incident occurred on Monday, following a heated argument that escalated into violence.

Colonel Deng Mou, the Police Inspector in Turalei, confirmed the arrest of the suspect, identified as Riing Mayat Bol, who allegedly shot his brother, Kon-Dok Mayat, with an AK-47. According to Mou, the killing stemmed from a disagreement over cattle ownership within their family.

“We have been pursuing the suspect since Monday after he fled into the bushes. On Tuesday, we apprehended him as he attempted to cross towards Abyei near a place called Nyin-Apoor,” Mou told Sudans Post today.

The police officer noted that when the suspect was arrested, he was unarmed, claiming to have handed over the weapon used in the incident.

“It is deeply troubling when even community leaders, like chiefs, act lawlessly. As law enforcement, we worked with locals to ensure the suspect was captured,” Mou added.

The dispute reportedly began in Majak-Pagai Boma of Angol-Ruel village, where the brothers clashed over cattle. Tensions escalated, culminating in the fatal shooting.

Mou urged the public to resolve conflicts peacefully and abide by the law to prevent such tragic incidents.

“Acts like this undermine community cohesion. People must remain law-abiding and avoid resorting to violence, especially in family disputes,” he said.

Cattle are a major source of conflict in South Sudan, particularly among cattle-keeping communities, where they are a symbol of wealth and pride.