Authorities in Tambura County, Western Equatoria State, are mourning the killing of a Catholic Church official who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen Wednesday night.
Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong told Radio Tamazuj Thursday that the attack occurred near St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tambura town. The victim, Paul Tamania, 39, served as a church secretary and was an active member of its youth group.
No suspects have been identified, and police said an investigation is ongoing.
“We have deployed our CID team to the scene, but so far, no evidence has been found. We are relying on eyewitness accounts,” Tong said.
Tambura County Commissioner Mathew Mabenge said Tamania was the only victim in the attack near a camp for displaced people next to the church. Security forces have been deployed as inquiries continue.
Mabenge alleged the assailants may have ties to supporters of former governor Alfred Futuyo, accusing them of theft and violence against civilians.
“We are all South Sudanese, and we must stop the bloodshed of innocent civilians,” Mabenge said, urging calm.
Local chief Thomas Sigini Bandaisa said residents reported gunfire around 3 a.m., and church officials later confirmed Tamania’s death.
Bandaisa said the situation had stabilized but warned of growing insecurity, calling for unity.
“I appeal to the people of Tambura County to come together, live peacefully, and avoid divisions,” he said.
Authorities vowed to pursue those responsible.
Tambura County has been affected by organised violence since June 2021, resulting in high levels of displacement both within the county, as well as to neighbouring counties and countries.