RUMBEK – Authorities in Lakes State have confirmed the killing of five bodaboda riders in a suspected ambush by armed youth believed to be from Panyijar County, Unity State.
According to Moses Maker Magok, the Commissioner of Rumbek North County, the attack occurred around 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday in the Wangwang area of Madol Payam.
He explained that the bodaboda riders were transporting goods for traders from Mayiandit County, Unity State, and had departed from Rumbek North en route to Madol Payam. Upon reaching the Wangwang area, the group was ambushed by unidentified gunmen.
“Five people were killed on the spot by criminals from neighbouring Panyijar County,” said Commissioner Magok. “We have police and SSPDF forces deployed near Madol Payam, especially at a location called Yiga, which serves as a junction for traders from Lakes and Unity States.”
Magok accused elements from Panyijar County of attempting to sabotage the peaceful trade relations between Rumbek North and Mayiandit.
“This area has long been a business hub for both communities. These rebels want to destroy the good relationship we’ve built,” he said, adding that security forces have been deployed along the border to prevent further attacks.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Majok Bol, the Commissioner of Panyijar County, acknowledged hearing reports of the killings but distanced his community from the incident.
“I heard that fish traders and bodaboda riders were killed, but I cannot confirm whether the attackers are from Unity State or if they belong to our community,” he said. “There is no known tension between Panyijar and Rumbek North counties.”
He called for a joint investigation into the incident.
“This attack happened along the shared borders of Rumbek North, Panyijar, Mayiandit, and Tonj East counties. No side should be blamed without evidence. An investigation is necessary to establish the truth,” he said.
He also confirmed that there had been reports of criminal activity along the border and admitted that some armed individuals had previously crossed into Rumbek North to stage attacks.
Civil society groups have also condemned the killings. Daniel Laat Kon, a representative of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), described the attack as “tragic and unacceptable.”
“You cannot kill innocent people simply for revenge or to incite conflict. These are businesspeople working to support their families and contribute to the economy,” Kon said.
He called on the governments of Lakes and Unity States to ensure the protection of civilians, especially those involved in cross-border trade.
“Protecting unarmed traders is a responsibility of the state. We urge both governments to engage the armed youth and stop these senseless attacks. The perpetrators must be brought to justice,” he emphasised.
