Photo Credit|Eye Radio

The High Court in Nimule has begun hearing a murder case involving nine people accused of killing a man over allegations of witchcraft in Magwi County, Eastern Equatoria State.

The accused are charged with the murder of Atary Denise, who prosecutors say was attacked at his home after being accused of possessing supernatural powers.

During the hearing, the victim’s father testified about the circumstances surrounding his son’s death.

The prosecution told the court that all nine accused persons took part in the incident.

According to justice and human rights advocate Both Philip, the accused admitted they believed the deceased possessed an evil spirit.

They claimed that women who approached him would allegedly collapse and cry while mentioning his name.

Prosecutors said that instead of reporting their concerns to authorities, the accused allegedly beat, tied up, and burned Atary Denise alive, causing his death.

Addressing the court, the prosecution argued that allegations of witchcraft or supernatural powers cannot justify the killing of another person. It maintained that no individual has the right to take the law into their own hands, regardless of personal beliefs.

The prosecution further submitted that the actions of the accused were deliberate and unlawful and directly resulted in the death of the deceased.

It urged the court to convict all nine accused of murder and impose the appropriate sentence under South Sudanese law.

The case remains before the High Court in Nimule, with hearings expected to continue as the court considers evidence from both the prosecution and the defence before delivering its verdict.