A recent attack on a vehicle near Tambura in Western Equatoria State, South Sudan, has resulted in the death of one child and injuries to two others. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at around 4 PM in Nia, approximately 10 kilometres from Tambura, as two vehicles were travelling towards the county. According to the caretaker minister of information, Noah Isa Philip, six people were travelling in the vehicle when gunmen opened fire.
The child killed in the attack was estimated to be 12 years old, while the driver and another passenger were injured and taken to Tambura Hospital for medical attention. The identities of the attackers remain unknown, but Philip alleged that armed groups linked to the SPLM IO could be responsible. Threats circulated through WhatsApp groups and Facebook had warned civilians against using the Tambura road, and named prominent political figures as targets.
The threats, described by Philip as propaganda, had demanded that some individuals leave Tambura within six hours. However, Philip insisted that the individuals named in the threats were still in the county participating in ongoing political activities. Security personnel are investigating the latest attack and working to address the security situation along the road.
The Sunday incident is not the only reported security concern along the route. Several weeks earlier, workers involved in fibre-optic installation were abducted along the Tambura–Nagero route near Bandala. Four vehicles carrying eight workers were reportedly taken to an unknown location, and one driver was released to travel to Wau to collect money after the captors allegedly demanded payment.
The continuing insecurity raises concerns about civilian protection, road access, and the movement of people and essential services in Western Equatoria State. The attacks are taking place as political activities and party primary elections continue in different parts of the state ahead of the anticipated general elections.
Western Equatoria has experienced security challenges along some roads and in parts of its counties, affecting civilian movement and economic activities. The latest reported attack near Nia highlights the risks facing travellers, particularly those using routes connecting Yambio, Tambura, and neighbouring counties.
The caretaker minister of information has urged residents to avoid unnecessary movements during evening and late-night hours, warning that travellers could become targets of armed attacks. The investigation into the attack is ongoing, and security personnel are working to address the security situation in the area.
Key points
- One child was killed and two people injured in the attack on the vehicle near Tambura.
- The attack may be linked to armed groups associated with the SPLM IO.
- The incident highlights the rising insecurity in Western Equatoria State, affecting civilian movement and economic activities.
