A boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) rider was seriously injured in a panga attack by his passenger on Thursday morning near the Yambio Airstrip in Bazungua Payam, about 5 kilometers from the Western Equatoria State capital, Yambio Town.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong said the incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. as the rider was transporting a passenger, who turned robber, to Bazungua Payam.
“Unfortunately, the rider was attacked and cut with a panga by the same passenger, who later made away with the red Boxer motorcycle,” he said. “The young man was found injured and lying along the road in Riibodo Boma, under Bazungua Payam. He has since been taken to Yambio State Hospital for treatment.”
Gen. Madut urged the public, especially residents of Ibba, Madebe, and surrounding areas, to report or apprehend anyone seen with a suspicious red Boxer motorcycle.
For his part, Victor Zakapu, the youth chairperson in Bazungua Payam, confirmed the attack and condemned the increasing insecurity targeting boda-boda riders.
“The criminals are still at large,” he cautioned. “My appeal to all riders is to avoid operating in the early morning or late-night hours to prevent such attacks, injuries, and possible loss of life.”
Eyewitnesses said the attacker posed as a customer before turning on the rider with a panga and escaping with the motorcycle.
Authorities have launched an investigation and are urging the community to share any leads that could help apprehend the perpetrator. Community leaders have also condemned the assault and robbery and called for the strengthening of security measures to protect commercial motorcyclists in the area.