Airtime vendor shot dead by police in Bentiu IDP Camp, officer arrested

BENTIU – A businessman selling mobile phone airtime was shot and killed by a police officer in Bentiu Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp on Tuesday morning, prompting an internal investigation and the arrest of the officer involved.

The incident occurred in Sector Two, Block Seven of the camp in Unity State. Authorities say the victim, identified as Lony Kuok Chuol, was a resident of the camp originally from Mayiendit County. He was rushed to Bentiu hospital after the shooting, but later died from his injuries.

Unity State police spokesperson John Malieth confirmed the incident, stating that the officer responsible for the shooting has been taken into custody as investigations begin. He said the killing was not intentional, but acknowledged that the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear and are now under review by police headquarters.

According to police, preliminary information from the scene is still being compiled, with investigators gathering witness accounts and reviewing operational procedures in the area at the time of the incident. Malieth added that more details will be released once the investigation progresses.

Community leaders in the Bentiu IDP Camp have also confirmed the death. Mawich Gatjiek Jiech, chairperson of the Mayiendit community in the camp, said the killing has caused deep shock among residents. He confirmed that the police officer involved was arrested shortly after the incident by security personnel.

Mawich said arrangements were made to transport the body of the deceased to Tutnyang Payam in Mayiendit County, his ancestral home, for burial. He noted that community members were focused on funeral preparations while awaiting further information from authorities regarding the investigation.

The killing has raised concerns among camp residents about police conduct and civilian safety within the IDP site. Bentiu IDP Camp hosts tens of thousands of displaced people who rely on small-scale trade, including airtime sales, to sustain their livelihoods. Incidents involving security personnel in civilian spaces often heighten anxiety in communities already living under fragile conditions.

Unity State authorities have yet to issue a formal statement outlining possible disciplinary or legal proceedings against the arrested officer. However, police officials say internal and legal processes will follow the outcome of the investigation.

Residents and community leaders are calling for transparency and accountability as they await official findings.