By Majur Chol Khor
In an emergency briefing held yesterday, Lul Ruai Koang, the spokesperson for the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), provided chilling details of a deliberate ambush on a bus travelling along the Juba-Nimule Road. The attack, which took place Tuesday morning, resulted in one fatality and left eight individuals injured.
Koang lamented, “Today, there was a major incident along Juba-Nimule Rd., a deliberate ambush on a bus operated by a bus service.” He continued, “Based on information received from our security forces on the ground, one person was killed, with seven civilians and one National Security Service personnel among the injured.”
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the number of passengers missing following the attack. While a confirmed military source indicates that 7 passengers are unaccounted for, a secondary source suggests that up to 14 individuals may be missing.
Following the ambush, security forces swiftly responded and began pursuit of the attackers who were seen heading towards Lobonok Payam of Magwai County, potentially seeking refuge on an island believed to serve as their base.
The SSPDF spokesperson did not mince words when attributing blame for the attack, declaring, “NAS was entirely responsible for that attack on the bus. This act challenges NAS’s claim of fighting for the liberation of South Sudanese people, as the casualties included nationals from Uganda and Sudan.”
Condemning the heinous act, Koang vowed, “The perpetrators will be brought to book. NAS has become enemy number one to the people of South Sudan and the region.” The spokesperson concluded, “The unforgivable nature of this events underscores the urgency for justice to be served.”
Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has added his voice to the chorus of condemnation following the horrific armed attack on a civilian bus.
Expressing profound sorrow for the lives lost and extending wishes for the swift recovery of the injured, Yakani declared, “Condolences to the families of those who have perished. We call upon the armed group to immediately release any civilians they have abducted.”
He emphasized the gravity of the attack, asserting, “The assault on a civilian passenger bus such as not only a violation of international humanitarian law but also a flagrant disregard for human rights.” Yakani urged citizens to join in investigating the incident and holding those responsible to account.
Stressing the urgent need for transparency and accountability, Yakani implored, “This attack must not go unanswered. It is imperative that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice. This is a stark violation of international norms and must not be tolerated.”
In the aftermath of the tragic bus shooting incident near Kubi, the prompt response of the Border Health Emergency team was evident following the urgent notification from the Border Management Committee at Elegu.
Immediate mobilization and evacuation procedures were swiftly put into action, reflecting a strong sense of urgency within the team. Five casualties, comprising 4 Ugandans and 1 Sudanese, were efficiently transported to receive critical care, receiving essential first aid as they awaited further medical evaluation.
Given the existing threats and uncertainties in the region, a cautionary advisory was issued by the team, advising all travelers bound for South Sudan to meticulously plan their journeys and take necessary precautions for their safety. Additionally, a plea was made to individuals already in the area to heighten their personal security measures and stay vigilant as they monitor the evolving situation.
The South Sudanese nation and the international community await further developments as authorities work to apprehend those responsible for this senseless act of violence.