A police officer identified as Elia Madangi and his child were killed, and at least 14 houses were burned following an early-morning attack by suspected rebels in Bazungua Payam near the Western Equatoria State capital, Yambio, on Monday.
A community leader who spoke on condition of anonymity told Radio Tamazuj that armed attackers stormed a checkpoint in Bazungua at dawn, opening fire and torching homes.
“Residents fled after the checkpoint was burned and gunshots were heard,” he stated.
The resident appealed to authorities to restore security so that people can focus on farming and rebuilding their livelihoods. He stressed that communities need peace and freedom rather than violence.
Yambio County Commissioner Angelo Bakote confirmed the incident, saying he received a report at around 5 a.m. He said the incident occurred while people were preparing for the Azande Kingdom’s anniversary celebrations.
“I was informed that suspected SPLM-IO rebels attacked Bazungua, burning houses and checkpoints of organized forces,” Bakote said.
He added that a police officer identified as Elia Madangi and his child were killed during the attack, while several homes were destroyed.
According to Bakote, security forces were deployed to the area, and the situation has since stabilized, although the attack caused displacement and panic among residents.
“South Sudan should stop bleeding,” he said. “Solutions cannot be achieved through gunfire; people need peace.”
The commissioner urged those responsible for violence to seek dialogue.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Badista Kumbo, the state’s deputy police commissioner, said the attackers targeted checkpoints and residential areas, resulting in fatalities and destruction of property, including the burning of a truck.
“Our message to the community is to remain calm, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security forces,” Gen. Kumbo said. “Forces have been deployed to protect civilians and restore stability.”
Bazungua is located about five kilometres from Yambio Town and is situated near the Azande Kingdom Royal Palace. The attack caused fear among residents and affected participation in the fourth anniversary celebrations. Authorities said security deployment will remain in place to ensure public safety.