May 19, 2021 — Pastor Peter Lokai of African Inland Church of Torit was killed on Tuesday morning barely a day after holding a general assembly in Torit on Monday.
Speaking to local media outlet, Bishop Zacharia Eriga, the African Inland Church Bishop of the Eastern Bank, confirmed on Tuesday morning that pastor Peter was rushed to Torit hospital where he succumbed to injuries less than 30 minutes later due to extensive bleeding.
According to relatives, the perpetrators lured the cleric out of his house in the middle of the night at 1:00am by calling his name several times and sounding like people who needed his assistance.
While trying to help them, late Peter Lokai opened the door and attempted to exit the house only for the killers to open fire on him, shooting him several times in the chest and also on his legs.
The police in Torit have confirmed the reports and said they are still investigating the incident.
“All the sister security organs – the police, the CID, national security and the military intelligence – are trying their best to apprehend the criminals,” Maj. Justin Cleophas, the Eastern Equatoria state police spokesperson said.
The death of Pastor Peter Lokai came just three weeks after Fr. Christian Carlassare, the Bishop-Elect of Rumbek Diocese, narrowly survived gunshots by unknown gunmen.
Public reaction
Reacting to the news, many citizens, especially members of AIC and residents of Torit, have poured in their condolences and called for the perpetuators to be found and held accountable.
“We are all shocked. I sensed this yesterday when his mood was not fine. We didn’t know God was calling him to share with him the glory he has prepared before the foundation of the earth. PS Peter, rest in peace” Said Kizito Tobby
“You were there yesterday pastor in the General Assembly (GA) today you absence death has robbed you. You spoke powerful words yesterday. Pastor Peter was the logistics of Africa Inland Mission and as well the DCC chairman. God let your fair justices prevail. RIP My Pastor” Said Modi Peter Kemish
“The fighter of faith and the servant of the most High God, you had fought a good fight and your inspiration will be remembered forever. My best friend in the Lord. You have die through persecution but a live in eternal existence Jesus will always be your best friend and we will always remember you until we meet again in everlasting kingdom. My heartily condolences to my beloved mum and the AIC. Pastor Peter lokai.” said Andrew Leilong
” We thank you Pastor Peter Lokai the will of God that your been doing and you raise us in the Spiritual way of God till we come near you but now you have leave us, we thank you a lot” Said Leikoi William
“Very sad to hear that dead Andrew sorry, may God take the soul in good way of internal life and also help the person who Kil him Amen” Said Dante Falerio
“May Almighty God revealed those evil killers. Pastor, you have a great man of God to Family of AIC, and giving gospel to the World, your words shall be alive in Spirit to us, may Your Soul rest in peace” Ihure Florence said.
