Wildlife officer arrested in Lakes after his riffle was used in accidental shooting by child

RUMBEK – South Sudan state authorities in Lakes State are investigating an incident where a 12-year-old boy wounded a 6-year-old girl with a rifle belonging to a wildlife officer.

Speaking to Sudans Post, Lakes State Police Spokesman Maj. Elijah Mabor Makuac said the incident occurred at Pan-thallic village of Abiriu Payam in Cueibet County on Wednesday evening.

He said the victim is currently receiving treatment at Abiriu Primary Health Care Center. According to Mabor, the weapon used in the incident belongs to a local wildlife officer who he said has so far been arrested.

“The rifle used belongs to a warranted officer from wildlife. Since the incident take place, he has been arrested and currently investigation is going on,” Makuac stated.

“It appears the officer left the rifle unsecured, allowing the boy to access and fire it,” he added, indicating that the wildlife officer is expected to be prosecuted for negligence.

According to Mabor, the 12-year-old boy is in police custody in Abiriu and is expected to be arranged in court soon.