The local authorities in Western Equatoria State have confirmed that one South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldier was killed and two others injured in an ambush by forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) in Tambura.
Tambura County Commissioner Mathew Mabenge told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that the incident occurred at about 9 a.m. when government soldiers were on routine patrol about five miles from Tambura Town.
“While on patrol near Yubu Bridge, the soldiers fell into an ambush by SPLA-IO forces, and one was killed, and two were injured. Later, the attackers returned and targeted the army barracks, but the SSPDF repelled them,” he disclosed. “The injured soldiers were evacuated to Juba for treatment. The situation is relatively calm now, but Tambura remains unstable due to continuous attacks from those in the bush.”
“If they have concerns, they should resolve them peacefully, not through killing and fighting,” Commissioner Mabenge added.
Meanwhile, the acting paramount chief of Tambura County, Bandaisa Richard Thomas Sigini, said the soldiers who were ambushed were heading to Ayati Camp for patrol when they came under attack. He described the attackers as “unknown gunmen” and confirmed that they also fired at the army barracks later the same day.
“The national and state governments should find those responsible. We have been living in fear for over six years now,” he said. “People are tired, they want to go to their gardens, schools, and live in peace.”
For his part, Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Philip Madut Tong said he had not yet received the full report, but confirmed that the situation had since calmed and residents were returning to the market.
SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang was not immediately available for comment, but in past incidents, he has typically urged the public to remain calm while investigations are conducted and facts are verified.