A South Sudanese football referee identified as J Snake was reportedly shot dead during a local football match in Bar-Bol, Kokor Payam, Mvolo County, Western Equatoria State.

According to initial reports, the referee was attacked after issuing a yellow card during the match.

Initial reports indicate the incident allegedly followed a dispute over the referee's decision.

The referee was reportedly shot during the match, leading to his death.

The incident happened in Bar-Bol, Kokor Payam, in Mvolo County, Western Equatoria State.

Details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, with authorities yet to release an official statement by the time of publishing this article.

The incident has sparked calls for authorities to investigate and bring those responsible to justice.

Football stakeholders and residents who shared information about the incident said action should be taken against those involved.

Local football matches in South Sudan often attract large crowds, with referees tasked with ensuring order during games.

Cases of violence against match officials have been reported in different parts of the region, raising concerns about safety during local tournaments.

Security agencies in Western Equatoria State are expected to investigate the incident and establish what happened.

By the time of publishing this article, police in Mvolo County had not yet issued an official statement on whether any arrests had been made.

Efforts to reach authorities in Western Equatoria State for comment were ongoing.

What should be done to protect referees during local football matches?

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