A devastating incident occurred in Leer County on Tuesday night, where a 32-day-old baby girl was reportedly taken and eaten by a suspected man-eating animal. The tragic event unfolded when the animal entered the family’s home, took the infant, and disappeared into the night. Despite the community’s efforts to search for the child, her body has not been recovered.
The infant’s parents, Nyaluak Liah Chuol and James Gatluak Luny were left in a state of profound shock after the horrifying event in the Rubjiech area, Leer County.
Nyaluak recounted that the animal behaved unnervingly like a human, walking on two legs. It reportedly opened the door and entered their home while the family was asleep. By the time she realized what was happening, it was too late to stop the creature.
“The incident happened at midnight. The house was securely locked with heavy wooden barriers from inside, yet the animal still entered,” Nyaluak said, tearfully recalling the night.
“I noticed it as it was leaving and at first thought it might be thieves. It even threw stones on our sleeping mats, which I believe were meant to keep us in a deep sleep. When I checked, my baby was gone. I ran after it, but it vanished with my child.”
The incident sparked panic and fear among the local community, as the animal’s swift disappearance left no trace of the baby.
In response, the Leer County Commissioner paid a visit to the grieving family, expressing deep sympathy and solidarity. The commissioner, Hon. Taker, acknowledged the government’s efforts to find the animal and restore a sense of security in the area. He noted the alarming pattern within the family, as the baby’s grandfather had also been reportedly eaten by an animal earlier this year, under similar circumstances.
“This is a deeply concerning situation,” said Hon. Taker. “The fact that the grandfather, Gatchuol, was taken similarly in February, and now the grandchild, suggests this is not a coincidence.
“We must take action. If traditional rituals are needed, we are ready to support the family. We will also consult the elders, as there may be history or unresolved issues tied to this tragedy. Additionally, we will seek the church’s help, as we believe divine intervention might be needed.”
The community of Leer has a history of man-eater legends, particularly during the conflicts between the SPLA and the Sudanese government, where it was rumored that soldiers transformed into animals and preyed on people. However, such reports diminished after the independence of South Sudan. This recent event has once again stirred old fears and anxieties among the residents.
The local authorities, alongside traditional and religious leaders, are now conducting investigations, as the community mourns the loss of an innocent life and grapples with the recurring tragedies haunting this family.
