At least five fish traders were killed by unidentified gunmen in an ambush along the border between Rumbek North and Mayiandit counties, officials from Lakes and Unity states said.
The attack occurred on Tuesday around 1 p.m. in the Yiga area of Madol Payam, Rumbek North County, Lakes State. This marks the second deadly ambush in recent weeks, following a cattle raid last month in Rumbek North by suspected armed youth from neighboring Panyijiar County, Unity State.
Rumbek North County Commissioner Moses Maker Magok told Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday that the victims were motorcycle riders transporting goods from Mayendit County when they were ambushed near Madol Payam.
“Five people were killed on the spot by criminals from Panyijiar County,” Magok said. “This area is a trading hub where people from both states conduct business. The attackers aim to disrupt our peaceful relations.”
Security forces have been deployed to the border in response, he added.
Panyijiar County Commissioner Majok Bol confirmed that he had received reports of the attack but could not confirm whether the assailants were from Unity State.
“I heard the information, but I do not know if the criminals are from Unity State,” Bol said. “There is no tension between Panyijiar and Rumbek North counties.”
He called for an investigation into the incident, which took place along the shared borders of Rumbek North, Panyijiar, Mayendit, and Tonj East.
“You cannot blame one side without evidence,” Bol said. “Security forces along the border must monitor criminal movements.”
He acknowledged that armed assailants had crossed into Rumbek North last month, attacking communities in Lakes State.
Daniel Laat Kon, a civil society activist and coordinator for the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) in Lakes State, condemned the killings.
“This was a cowardly act targeting innocent people working to support their families,” Kon said. “The perpetrators must be held accountable.”
He urged state governments to protect civilians and disarm armed youth to prevent further violence.