A group of unidentified gunmen looted the Matakurungu Primary Health Care Unit in Western Equatoria State’s Tambura County earlier last week, leaving the facility closed and the local community without access to essential medical services.
According to local authorities, the assailants stormed the health facility at night and made away with medicines, mattresses, bed covers, chairs, and cleaning supplies.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Acting County Police Inspector First Lieutenant John Kinolo Baptist confirmed the incident and said the facility has remained closed since the attack due to fear among staff and patients.
“The Matakurungu health center was looted on Tuesday night at around 9 p.m. The attackers took away medicines, chairs, and other essential items,” he said. “Fortunately, no one was injured or killed during the incident.”
“The robbers, who covered their faces, also robbed an old woman of her little money and belongings before disappearing,” Kinolo added.
He added that while an investigation has been launched, no suspects have been apprehended.
Meanwhile, Justin Clement Kuku, a nutrition officer with the county health department, confirmed the incident and said a team of officials visited the facility.
“The health facility is now closed because there is fear, yet it is the only one in the area,” he said.
The prolonged closure of the facility has triggered serious concern among residents, many of whom rely on the center for basic healthcare services.
Community leaders are now calling on the state and national governments to urgently intervene, restore security, and ensure the reopening of the health facility to address the growing health crisis in Tambura County.