Central Equatoria committee condemns Yei abductions

JUBA – The Central Equatoria State Security Committee has condemned the recent abduction of 10 civilians in Lasu Payam of Yei River County, allegedly by forces allied to rebel leader Gen. Thomas Cirilo.

The condemnation came during a weekly security briefing held on Tuesday in Juba, presided over by Acting Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede.

The committee’s meeting focused on addressing rising insecurity in the state, which they attributed to “anti-peace elements,” and called for enhanced inter-agency collaboration to curb such threats.

Leon Abe Brown, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, confirmed the abduction of eight men and two women, stating they were allegedly taken by members of the National Salvation Front (NAS).

“These acts are barbaric, inhumane, and unacceptable,” Brown said, calling for the “immediate and unconditional release of all abductees.” He added that such actions “stand in direct opposition to peace efforts in the State.”

Brown also reported the torching of two vehicles in Morobo County, linking both incidents to the same group.

The committee reiterated the importance of unity among state leaders to deliver services more effectively and maintain law and order. Local government officials also appealed to the public to actively participate in promoting peace, reaffirming the state’s dedication to protecting its citizens.

The committee pledged to intensify its security operations and ensure those responsible for the recent attacks are held accountable.

Days before the committee’s statement, Charles Data Bullen, the commissioner of Morobo County, accused the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) of a road ambush in which two people were killed and four injured.

The incident occurred at Lotopiyo area along the Kaya highway, about 10 kilometers from Morobo County headquarters. The four wounded are currently receiving treatment.

“These are SPLA-IO forces, who did this ambush, and it was officially laid by them, so it is not unknown gunmen as we used to say before,” Commissioner Bullen stated at the time of the incident.

According to Bullen, the incident has sparked fear among residents and travelers. “The situation in Morobo County is not all that good; the activities of rebels are proving to be hard,” he said.

Recent clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition in Payume of Morobo County have displaced thousands in recent weeks.