By Sabri Dibaco
The South Sudan National Police spokesperson has confirmed the arrest of a police captain for assaulting a young rickshaw rider, an incident that triggered widespread public concern and debate.
Speaking to No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper, Maj. Gen. Daniel Justin, South Sudan National Police spokesperson, stated that the captain was apprehended following the alleged assault, which occurred on Tuesday in Juba.
Justin further assured the public that the suspect is currently in custody and would face due legal process.
“We have taken the necessary legal steps to ensure the individual is held accountable. No one is above the law,” he said.
The incident apparently occurred when the captain allegedly attacked a young rickshaw rider following a minor disagreement about the breakage of the side mirror of a car.
Eyewitnesses and the video seen going viral on social media quickly escalated, with the officer physically assaulting the rider in public view.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, sustained injuries and was later taken for medical attention. Residents in the area described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” calling on authorities to ensure justice is served.
Cases involving abuse of civilians by individuals in positions of power have periodically raised concern among the public in South Sudan.
Human rights advocates and civil society organisations have often called for stronger accountability mechanisms within both military and civilian institutions.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents, with many calling for justice and equal application of the law.
Community members expressed frustration over what they perceived as recurring cases of abuse involving powerful individuals.
“We want to see real justice. It should not matter who the person is; if they commit a crime, they must be punished,” a social media user commented on the video.
Police said investigations are ongoing and the suspect will be presented before the court once preliminary procedures are completed.
Daniel Justin reaffirmed the police’s commitment to upholding justice, urging the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
“We assure the public that this case will be handled professionally and fairly,” he added.
Additionally, police have appealed to the public to remain calm and allow investigations to proceed.
They also encouraged witnesses or anyone with additional information to report to the police.
The case is expected to be forwarded to court upon completion of investigations, as the nation watches closely to see how justice will be served.
Civil society activist Emmanuel Lexon called for justice following the assault of a Rickshaw rider by a senior police captain, urging the government to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law.
The activist condemned the assault and described it as a violation of human rights and a misuse of authority. Emmanuel called for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident to ensure justice is served without interference.
“We strongly condemn this act of violence against a civilian. No one is above the law, regardless of rank or position; we urge the government to act decisively and ensure that such incidents are not repeated,” Emmanuel stated.
In 2023, a video showing a former acting mayor slapping a female street vendor went viral, and he was later sacked.
For the police captain, the case continues to draw attention as citizens await further developments and the eventual court proceedings.