Warrap state governor suspends commissioner over shootings
June 1, 2022 (JUBA) – The governor of South Sudan’s Warrap State, Aleu Ayieny Aleu has suspended the Tonj South county commissioner following a recent shooting incident, which left a national security officer wounded.
Governor Aleu Ayieny Aleu, in a May 28, 2022 letter, lifted Marco Agor Malang’s immunity and ordered an investigation into the shooting incident.
The suspect, according to the letter Sudan Tribune obtained, allegedly shot a national security officer at Lakhan hotel in Tonj Town on May 27, 2022.
“This is to notify you that your immunity and duty are lifted and suspended respectively,” partly read the governor’s letter.
“The police and Attorney General in Tonj South are hereby ordered to take appropriate legal procedures against you and present you to court for the alleged shooting of citizen John Lemon on the night of 27 May 2022,” it adds.
Aleu said cartridges from Agor’s weapon were found at the scene of crime.
“The victim who was medevac to Juba with previous gunshot injuries has been operated upon and the bullet that penetrated to his chest (right) lacerating his liver and puncturing his left kidney is from a 9 mm caliber pistol,” stressed the governor’s letter extended to Sudan Tribune.
It added, “Since you were the only one with such a weapon on the scene of the crime, then you have to face the law accordingly”.
Meanwhile, the former commissioner acknowledged receiving his suspension letter and admitted his immunity was lifted by the governor.
He, however, said he was advised not to talk to the media over the matter.
“Yes, I am in town and I am good to be here. I will give my statement to the committee or anybody to whom I will be directed,” Agor said Tuesday.
Warrap State Information minister, Riing Deng Ading confirmed the authenticity of the letter, saying investigations into the matter are ongoing.
He said the suspect was in safe custody and awaits trial by the military.
(ST)