A couple was shot and killed by unidentified gunmen at their home in Tambura County, Western Equatoria State, on Wednesday night, local officials said.
Thomas Bandaisa Sigini, the acting paramount chief of Tambura, identified the victims as Edward Gbondo, a member of the Zande ethnic group, and his wife, Adali Elizabeth, a Balanda.
Chief Thomas told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that the attack occurred around 11 p.m. at their residence in Bavuru Boma.
“I am appealing to both the state and national governments to come to Tambura, investigate the root causes of these crimes, and find lasting solutions,” Bandaisa said. “People are suffering, and innocent civilians are being killed.”
Bandaisa noted that while the town remains relatively calm, tensions persist. Relatives of the deceased initially refused to collect the woman’s body, which was later taken to the police station.
A local resident, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals, confirmed the incident occurred in the Nagito (Alessio) area, about five kilometers from Tambura town.
“The situation in town is calm, but people are living in fear and cannot move freely outside town,” the source said.
Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong also confirmed the attack.
“According to reports we received, a husband and wife were killed by unknown gunmen who later escaped,” Madut said. “We continue to urge communities to report criminals and suspected individuals to the authorities to help prevent such crimes.”
No arrests have been made.