Youth leaders in Oudo Boma, Bur Payam of Torit County, over the weekend arrested a suspected murderer linked to the killing of a man from Pacidi Payam in Lafon County, in what authorities have described as a significant step toward strengthening community-led peace and security efforts between neighboring communities.
The suspect was handed over to Torit County authorities on Saturday during a peace and security engagement visit by county officials to Omorwo Village.
The arrest comes at a time when communities in parts of Torit and Lafon counties have continued efforts to rebuild trust and prevent recurring cycles of violence, revenge attacks, and criminal activities that have affected relations between neighboring communities over the years.
Torit County Caretaker Commissioner Eddy William Ponsiano confirmed the arrest, saying the suspect was allegedly involved in the killing of a man identified as Albano, a resident of Pacidi Payam in Lafon County.
He explained that Albano had travelled from Torit Town to Omorwo Village, where he spent the night before proceeding toward his home area in Pacidi Payam, Lafon County.
According to the commissioner, the incident occurred after two young men allegedly followed Albano after obtaining a firearm belonging to another person who was away from his home. The suspects are accused of intercepting and killing him along the road.
“One suspect has been arrested while another remains at large,” Commissioner Ponsiano said, adding that Oudo youth leaders and local authorities are continuing efforts to trace the remaining suspect and ensure that he faces justice.
He praised the youth of Oudo Boma, particularly those from Omorwo Village, for responding positively to the call of authorities and assisting in maintaining law and order.
The commissioner said the cooperation demonstrated by the youth shows that communities themselves have an important role to play in preventing crime and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Torit and Lafon counties, both located in Eastern Equatoria State, share historical social, cultural, and economic ties. Communities from the two areas have traditionally interacted through trade, movement of livestock, intermarriage, and cultural exchanges.
However, these relations have also been affected by periods of insecurity driven by cattle-related conflicts, armed attacks, revenge killings, competition over resources, and criminal activities carried out by armed individuals.
The areas around Bur Payam, Oudo Boma, and communities bordering Lafon have previously experienced incidents where individuals have been attacked while travelling, resulting in accusations and tensions between communities.
Traditional leaders and government authorities have emphasized that criminal acts committed by individuals should not be allowed to damage the historical relationship between communities.
Joseph Lagu Leon, Chief of Bur Payam, welcomed the arrest, praising the youth of Oudo and Omorwo for working together with traditional authorities and security officials. He said the cooperation between youth leaders, chiefs, and government authorities demonstrates the commitment of communities to protect peace and stability.
“The relationship between our communities has existed for many years, and we must continue protecting it through cooperation and dialogue,” he said.
Meanwhile, Micael Obiala, the youth leader of Bur Payam, confirmed the arrest and assured authorities that the suspect would be handed over to the justice system. He said the youth remain committed to working with the government and security institutions to ensure that criminals are held accountable.
“Our responsibility is to support peace and ensure that those who commit crimes face the law,” he said.
The arrest is the latest in a series of security operations led by Torit County authorities under caretaker Commissioner Eddy William Ponsiano. This marks the fifth time he has overseen the arrest of suspected killers in Torit County since taking office, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement and community security.
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