Unidentified gunmen shot and killed the head of the bench court in Mundri West County, Western Equatoria state, on Sunday night, local officials said.
Chief Justin Ibrahim was killed at around 9 p.m. at his home while he was alone, County Commissioner Zelpha Dawa said. His family members were away at the time of the attack.
“This appears to be an isolated incident,” Dawa told Radio Tamazuj, adding that investigations were under way to identify and arrest the perpetrators. The killing comes amid growing concerns about insecurity in the region.
Ibrahim’s death has shocked the community, where he was regarded as a key figure in resolving local disputes and upholding traditional justice.
South Sudan’s transitional constitution and the 2009 Local Government Act recognise customary law courts, where traditional chiefs rule based on ethnic customs and norms.
State Police Commissioner Maj-Gen Phillip Madut Tong told Radio Tamazuj that two unidentified assailants were involved in the attack.
“Only one person was killed. No arrests have been made yet, and the attackers remain unknown,” he said, urging residents to assist authorities by reporting suspicious activity.
A member of parliament from Western Equatoria, who requested anonymity for security reasons, condemned the killing.
“This act should not be tolerated. Our people want to live in peace,” the lawmaker said. “I urge county authorities to act quickly and bring those responsible to justice.”
Edmund Yakani, a prominent civil society activist, also denounced the attack, calling it “a grave assault on the justice system.”
“Killing a judge or chief is like fighting the law itself. Authorities must take this very seriously,” Yakani said.
No group has claimed responsibility for the killing.
Greater Mundri has seen a rise in security incidents in recent weeks. In August, armed men ambushed a humanitarian truck along the Yambio–Juba road in neighbouring Mundri East County.