At least 500 civilians from the Central African Republic (CAR) have fled into South Sudan’s Western Equatoria state after fighting between rebel groups and government forces erupted in the border town of Bambuti, local officials and residents said.
The displaced civilians — mostly women, children and local leaders — crossed into Source Yubu area of Tambura County over the weekend and are sheltering without adequate food, clean water or housing, according to residents and local authorities.
Residents said heavy gunfire forced families to flee in fear. Accounts differed on when the violence began. Some residents said clashes erupted early Sunday morning, while others said the shooting started late Saturday.
“More than 500 civilians are now sheltering here with nothing,” said Gift Francis, a South Sudanese resident of Source Yubu, speaking to Radio Tamazuj. “They have no food, no clean water and no proper accommodation. Many fled with only the clothes they were wearing.”
One of the displaced civilians, Mborinaani Sebastian, said he escaped with his family when shooting broke out.
“We didn’t know who the attackers were. We just ran,” he said. “People are hungry, tired and suffering. So far no deaths have been reported, but we urgently need help.”
Local chief Anthony Salvario said those who crossed the border included civilians, church members and local government officials, many of whom left behind their belongings.
“They crossed with nothing,” Salvario said. “They urgently need food, water, mosquito nets and shelter. We are appealing to the government and humanitarian organizations to intervene before the situation worsens.”
Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong said South Sudanese authorities were monitoring the situation and maintaining security along the border.
“We have received civilians and officials fleeing from Bambuti,” he said. “The situation on our side is calm, and security forces are protecting the border. The incident occurred outside South Sudan.”
Attempts to reach the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission and the commissioner of Tambura County for comment were unsuccessful.
Bambuti, in southeastern CAR, lies about 5 miles from Source Yubu, making it the closest crossing point for civilians fleeing the violence. Local authorities said more arrivals are expected if fighting continues.