Advocate James Mabor Mourwel was left unconscious and sustained severe injuries after being attacked by family members of a girl he recently defended in a high-profile case against child marriage. The incident occurred Saturday evening behind Mourwel’s office, following his successful representation of the 14-year-old girl in the Lakes State High Court.

Mourwel reported that he was assaulted by individuals connected to the case he had just won, stating, “These people came and attacked me later. They came and beat me to the extent of sustaining injuries on my throat, neck, and back.” He is currently receiving treatment at Rumbek State Hospital, where medical director Dr. Terran Madit Terran confirmed Mourwel had been stabilized but was experiencing generalized pain in multiple areas.

The lawyer plans to file a report of assault with local authorities once he has recovered. The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) coordinator in Lakes State, Daniel Laat Kon, condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to protect those advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations.