Lakes state: One killed in revenge attack

June 2, 2013 (RUMBEK) – A revenge attack in South Sudan’s Lakes state on Saturday left a person dead, while the suspected killer remains at large, authorities said.

The incident, a South Sudan police officer told Sudan Tribune, occurred inside Karic payam [district], located less than five meters away from Rumbek East County headquarters.

He identified the deceased as Dut Marial Deng.

The officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said efforts are underway to arrest the suspected killer, Laat Makur, believed to have fled to neighbouring Yirol West County after the night attack.

In 2008, according to officials, a man from Yirol West County visited Makur, but was allegedly killed by Deng on his way back home for unclear reasons.

It was then that Makur took the matter to a special court, which months later ruled that 31 cows be paid or blood compensation for the killing, in accordance with Dinka traditional customary laws.

Makur, officials told Sudan Tribune, was among the group that joined the South Sudan army (SPLA) force, which fought in Heglig/Panthou oil field battle in April, last year. However, it was upon his return from the battle field that he decided to kill Deng, allegedly in revenge for his friend’s death.

Incidences of revenge killings are a common occurrence Lakes state, partly contributing to the cycle of violence in the region.

(ST)