Authorities in Western Equatoria State have arrested five suspects in connection with the brutal murder of senior education official Peter Michael Mbia in Yambio town.
Mbia, the Director General in the Ministry of General Education and Instruction was gunned down on August 3 at his residence in the Napere area.
His killing raised tensions at a time of political transition in the state.
Police Commissioner Phillip Madut Tong told The Nile Witness on Sunday that the arrests have brought the investigation to a close.
“We have arrested some individuals concerning the killing of the director general. The case is ready, and we will transfer them to court. They are five in number,” Madut said.
He added that calm has largely returned to Yambio despite broader challenges such as looting and rising living costs.
Reacting to the arrests, Acting Governor and Minister of Cabinet Affairs John Bariona assured the public that the state government is working tirelessly to strengthen security and restore confidence.
“Our people must know that justice will be served. The government is determined to protect lives and property. This arrest shows that law enforcement is doing its job and we will not tolerate lawlessness in Western Equatoria,” Bariona said.
Meanwhile, Yambio Town Mayor John Singira urged residents to cooperate with authorities and refrain from acts of mob justice.
“We appeal to our communities not to take the law into their hands. More suspects will be brought to book as investigations continue, but justice must follow the right process through the courts,” Singira stressed.
The murder came shortly after the removal of the state’s education minister and the appointment of a new governor and deputy governor by President Salva Kiir, developments that have fueled speculation of political undercurrents in the killing.
Civil society groups have called on the new state leadership to use the moment to reinforce peace.
Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), warned that ignoring civilian protection could worsen insecurity.
“The leadership must take serious steps to prevent armed clashes and protect civilians. Continued violations could draw international attention, even from the International Criminal Court,” Yakani cautioned.
He added that CEPO is ready to partner with state leaders to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
