By Emmanuel Mandella

Police in Western Equatoria have arrested five suspects in connection with the recent killing of a senior education official.

Peter Michael Mbia, the Director General in the State Ministry of General Education and Instruction, was gunned down on August 3 at his home in Napere residential area in Yambio, sparking widespread outrage and demand for accountability.

State Police Commissioner Phillip Madut Tong confirmed the arrests on Sunday, noting that the suspects are in custody as investigations continue.

“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 told The City Review on Sunday evening.

He added that security in Yambio and surrounding areas has remained calm in recent days despite broader challenges such as looting and high living costs.

The killing, which came amid recent political reshuffles in Western Equatoria State, has heightened concerns about law and order. President Salva Kiir recently appointed a new governor and deputy governor, while also removing the state’s education minister just days before Mbia’s death.

Acting Governor John Bariona, who also serves as Minister of Cabinet Affairs, reassured the public of the government’s commitment to strengthening security and ensuring justice.

“The government will not tolerate lawlessness. Our security organs are working around the clock to protect civilians and maintain peace. The arrest of these suspects is proof that we are serious about tackling insecurity in Western Equatoria,” Bariona said.

Yambio Town Municipality Mayor John Singira also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities, warning against mob justice as security forces continue their crackdown.

“I want to appeal to our people not to take the law into their own hands. Let us allow the police and judiciary to handle these cases. More arrests are expected, and justice will be served through the proper legal process,” Singira stressed.

In a voice note shared with the city review, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), called on the state’s new leadership to prioritize civilian protection.

“The leadership must take serious steps to prevent armed clashes and protect civilians,” Yakani said, warning that ongoing human rights violations could even warrant International Criminal Court scrutiny.

Yakani further noted that CEPO is ready to facilitate dialogue with the new administration to promote peace and coexistence in the troubled state.