KAJO-KEJI — At least three people have been killed and thousands fled their homes after the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) on Monday attacked Nyainga-Muda, Kangapo II Payam of Kajo-Keji County of South Sudan’s Central Equatoria State, a local official said.
Wani Jackson Mule, Commissioner of Kajo-Keji County, told Sudans Post on Tuesday that last night’s attack by Ugandan forces has sparked panic and displacement among residents.
“In terms of casualties, yes, we have some casualties. I’m waiting for three people who were killed there in the battlefield, in the detachment. I sent a vehicle to go and pick up our dead bodies, and I’m waiting for them so that I can bury them,” said Jackson.
He said thousands of civilians, mostly women, children, and elderly people, have fled their homes, with many now seeking shelter in schools, health facilities, and open spaces.
“In terms of displacement, yes, thousands of civilians have been displaced, particularly women and children. And then the elderly and the vulnerable community have been displaced widely in the area,” he said.
Jackson said they are prepared to have a cross-border meeting with the RDC of the Yumbe District of Uganda to address the matter.
“I have not identified them yet, but the rumors say there were two of them in a uniform while the other one was just in a plain cloth. It may likely be a civilian.”
He urged residents to remain calm, as the government is working to restore stability in the area.
Several children fled without knowing where they were going, including a 7-month-old infant who is being cared for by his 10-year-old brother, he said.
“So, in terms of needs, they should be reinforced with food items, non-food items, shelter, and then medicine, because that will push away where the healthy facilities are.”
He said they are now working with the Kajo-Keji diocese to identify the parents of the 7-month-old infant rescued by his elder brother.
He appealed for urgent humanitarian support to assist affected communities.
He disclosed that the fighting was triggered by an invasion from Uganda in an attempt to drive South Sudanese off their ancestral territory.
“We have been appealing, and my appeal still goes the same, that our national government must demarcate the border if this situation is to be brought to its dignified end,” he said.
“Because without demarcating it, they keep on moving ahead. They keep on moving, and when you stop them, then they just march in an army, everything, and attack us.”
