Teen Shooting Shocks Lafon County
Residents of Marguna Payam, Lafon County, were jolted this week after a 14-year-old herder, Isidor Arun, died from a single gunshot while tending cattle with friends.
County commissioner Orupi David Uywek described the event as “a heartbreaking accident” that has unsettled normally quiet grazing lands.
How the Incident Unfolded
Officials report that a rifle carried by 16-year-old Oputo Otong Muna discharged unexpectedly, killing Arun instantly.
Eyewitnesses told local chiefs the teens were guarding livestock against raiders and wild animals, a common practice that often places firearms in youthful hands.
Escape and Ongoing Manhunt
Muna was detained and taken to Pari Likweri for customary mediation but slipped away before proceedings began, Uywek confirmed.
“I have instructed all security agents to locate the suspect so he can be brought to justice,” the commissioner said, adding that checkpoints now monitor routes toward Torit.
Voices from Local Authorities
State Police Commissioner Gen. Lazarus Wani Tranquilo verified the case and urged full disclosure of details, remarking, “We will not allow criminals to disturb the peace.”
He emphasized coordinated efforts between county police, wildlife units and community leaders to prevent retaliation or further incidents.
Security Climate During Festivities
Despite the tragedy, officials report a generally serene Christmas season across Eastern Equatoria’s eight counties.
Tranquilo noted, “The whole state is safe, and we want everyone to feel free to walk around,” reflecting increased patrols and early curfews in some trading centers.
Child Access to Firearms in Rural Areas
Community elders acknowledge that arming teenagers for cattle herding remains widespread, citing sparse security coverage over vast grazing corridors.
Local NGO workers argue that tighter control of small arms and expanded youth programs could reduce similar mishaps, while respecting pastoralist traditions crucial to rural livelihoods.