Police Inspector David Deng told this publication on Wednesday that the two incidents were linked to disputes among local farmers in Nyalath, an area known for its fertile land that attracts people from various parts of the state.
According to Deng, the first incident occurred on Monday evening in Aluel village when two men—identified as Akol Keer (58) and Ayup Akec (60)—fought over payment for farm labour.
“Akol hired Ayup to help him harvest two farms, promising to pay him after completion. When Ayup demanded his balance of about 2,500 SSP, Akol refused to pay. A quarrel ensued, and Akol speared Ayup in the back with a tool he was using for harvest,” Deng explained.
Residents rushed to rescue Ayup, who was later taken to the hospital. Police arrested Akol Keer and detained him at Maper-Akot-Aru Police Station.
Deng added that some residents alleged the two men had been drinking Aragi, a locally brewed alcohol, before the fight, which may have contributed to the escalation.
In a separate incident in Lool-Nyang village, another fight broke out after a child insulted two elders identified as Lual and Kuan. When the men tried to discipline the boy, his father, Dut Marac, intervened to defend him.
“During the scuffle, Dut was injured on the head and shoulder and lost consciousness,” Deng said.
He confirmed that all victims from the two incidents are receiving treatment and that three suspects have been taken into custody pending court appearance.
Deng noted that the incidents reflect a worrying trend of residents resorting to violence instead of lawful means to resolve disputes.
“These cases show a lack of awareness about legal procedures for seeking justice. People need to understand that taking the law into their own hands only fuels more crime,” he said.
