Over 20 people detained after Lakes state protest
September 29, 2013 (RUMBEK) – Authorities in South Sudan’s Lakes state have detained at least 23 people in connection with Friday’s violent demonstration in its Yirol West County.
Friday’s protest started when authorities blocked David Deng Athorbei, the area lawmaker in the national assembly from addressing a gathering in which he was invited as chief guest.
The event had been planned for Yirol Boys primary school, at which a bull was to be slaughtered as part of the ceremony organised by the school management.
Eyewitnesses accused Yirol West commissioner Majak Ruei Angong for allegedly ordering arrests of protestors after they destroyed his office, although this could not independently be verified.
Meanwhile, Sudan Tribune has reliably learned that at least eight teachers from Yirol Boys school, including their head teacher, are among the detainees.
The headmaster was said to be in a critical condition after being given several lashes.
A security officer, who requested anonymity, said they are simply acting on orders of the governor, through the area commissioner.
“Yes, we [have] beaten them [protestors] and we arrested them as the commissioner required”, he said, adding that the area police inspector is also being questioned in connection with the destruction of the commissioner’s office.
Below is a list of those detained;
– Executive Director, Thon Rengu Majhok
– Town Clerk, Mayom Riak
– Police Inspector, named not provided
– Deputy town clerk, name not provided
– Mabor Magak Kachol, payam administrator for Mapuordit
– Awad Mahuod Abdulla, taxation officer
– Mabui Ajuong, Sergeant major for army (SPLA)
– Mangar Maker Athorbei, Town court member
– Makur Buong Ayher, member of special court
– Anyak Telar Anyuon, Protocol officer
– James Mayor Ayeu, teacher Yirol Boys primary
– Peter Bec Amuom, teacher Yirol Boys primary
– Moses Majur Kon, teacher Yriol Boys primary
– Akec Mayen Apoon, teacher Yirol Boys primary
– Michael Madhieu Anhiem, teacher Yirol Boys primary
– Makur Adut, teacher Yirol Boy primary
– Galung Makur Akec, Teacher Yirol Boy primary
– Luka Abuok Dut, teacher Yirol Boy primary
– James Mabor IKau, head teacher Yirol Boy primary
– Macuei Makoi, Yirol West Youth Association chairman
– Makuei Jacob Chagai, paramount chief Anuol payam
– Balang Telar Apadier, Executive chief, Anuol payam
– Angelo Achol Nhial, staff of Yirol hospital
(ST)