Fresh details of Aweil men killed in Abyei on New Year’s Eve emerge

JUBA – Fresh details have emerged regarding the killing of two young men from Aweil on New Year’s Eve in Abyei Town, as authorities continue investigations into the deadly incident that occurred on December 31, 2025.

The victims have been identified as Arou Acak Arou and Dut Deng Bol, both believed to be in their early 20s. Preliminary information indicates that the two were local retailers who moved around Abyei Town selling clothes and other small goods.

Speaking to this outlet on Friday via a phone interview, Tong Kuot Tong, the spokesperson for the Aweil Community Association in Abyei, stated that the youths were attacked while conducting their business in the Athok-Giet neighbourhood.

“According to the information we received, the two were selling clothes when attackers, suspected to be youths from within Abyei, shot them at close range,” Tong said. “Both victims were shot in the head and died instantly.”

He described the incident as a “heinous and senseless act” and linked the killings to robbery, citing claims from residents that the attackers targeted the youths after seeing them with money from their sales.

“The cause of their death is related to their business activities. They were innocent traders struggling to make a living,” he added. “We strongly condemn the killing of our innocent youths.”

The incident has drawn condemnation from authorities in Aweil East County. In a condolence letter seen by this outlet, the county commissioner expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Aweil East County, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims during this painful and difficult time,” the letter reads in part.

“We demand an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into this heinous crime. The perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and brought to justice. Accountability is essential to uphold justice, peace, and the rule of law.”

The Abyei Special Administrative Area authorities also condemned the killings in a separate statement issued by the Office of the Minister of Information, extending condolences to the government and people of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State.

“Accordingly, the Abyei Area Administration condemns, in the strongest terms possible, this criminal and violent act, which constitutes a direct threat to public safety,” the statement said.

Community leader Chief Sultan Bona Bol Achuil of the Aweil Community in Abyei has reportedly filed a formal complaint demanding that the perpetrators be brought to book.

Residents allege that after the shooting, the victims were rushed by car toward Aweil East, where their relatives later received the bodies for burial.

The killings have sparked anger among Aweil residents in Abyei, while authorities have urged calm, assuring the public that efforts are underway to track down and arrest the suspects.