Police in Malakal have arrested five people in connection to the killing of the public prosecutor on Monday. According to Radio Tamazuj, the arrests were made on Tuesday. Thomas Aban Akol Ajawin was shot dead on Monday evening while eating in a restaurant in the town.
Upper Nile State Police Commissioner, Chol Atem, says the suspects are being investigated. Atem says, they believe that Aban was murdered because of his position as state’s senior prosecutor.
“Previously, Aban received death threats from a group which accused him of freeing an arrested restaurant owner called Hussein. The restaurant owner was having differences with the group over a goat,” said Chol Atem. “The murder of the public prosecutor is work-related; it is not political. So, I urge all South Sudanese to remain calm.”
The family of the late Aban welcomed the arrest. Martin John Akol, a family member says they are happy with speedy arrests.
“The minister of justice came and informed us about what happened. As the family, we welcome the effort exerted and we hope that the law will take its course,” he added