In a statement issued from Lankien, the headquarters of Nyirol County, Commissioner Peter Gatkuoth Koang condemned what he described as an “alleged Murle armed attack” that occurred on 16 May along the Bool-Pulath road leading to Lankien.
The unnamed victims were staff members of Sunshine Road Construction Company who were working on a road construction project toward Lankien. The victims reportedly included Ethiopian nationals employed by the company.
“The incident occurred when attackers allegedly targeted Sunshine Road Construction Company staff who were under construction of the road towards Lankien, including Ethiopian staff working with the company,” the statement said.
The commissioner accused armed youth from the Greater Pibor area of being behind the killings, although no group had publicly claimed responsibility by Tuesday.
Koang described the attack as “a serious crime” that undermines peace, security, and development efforts in the country.
“This act of violence is unacceptable under any circumstances,” added the statement dated 18 May 2026. “The Office of the County Commissioner strongly condemns the perpetrators for bringing terror and suffering to innocent civilians and non-combatant workers.”
Authorities said the attack has heightened fear and insecurity among residents and disrupted an ongoing infrastructure project aimed at improving transport and livelihoods in the area.
The commissioner warned that the incident could further inflame tensions among communities if urgent measures are not taken to restore calm and prevent further violence.
Nyirol County, located in Jonglei State, has frequently experienced insecurity linked to intercommunal violence, cattle raids, and armed attacks involving youth from neighbouring areas, including the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.
Koang called on security agencies and relevant authorities to launch an immediate investigation into the killings and bring those responsible to justice.
“We therefore call upon all relevant authorities and security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure that justice is served in accordance with the law,” he said.
The county authorities also appealed to community leaders and stakeholders to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence while strengthening protection for civilians and workers involved in development projects.
The commissioner extended condolences to the families of the victims, saying the county administration stood in solidarity with those affected by the attack.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and relatives of the victims. May God grant strength to the affected families and guide all efforts towards restoring safety, peace, and stability in Nyirol County,” the statement concluded.
Authorities in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area were not immediately available for comments.
