The residents of Tambura County in Western Equatoria State say they are living in fear over reports of possible attacks by SPLA-IO forces and the movement of armed groups around Tambura Town.
Tambura County Commissioner James Mupaya told Radio Tamazuj that reports of armed individuals moving in areas surrounding the town have created fear among residents.
He said armed people have reportedly been seen along Daniel Road, about five miles from Tambura; another road about seven miles away; and Martina Road, roughly ten miles from the town.
Mupaya said the SSPDF and other security outfits have increased patrols, and authorities are planning to set up checkpoints along roads considered vulnerable, including Wau Road, Suer Road and the main road.
“A curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. is also being enforced,” he said. “No civilian deaths or injuries have so far been reported in connection with the latest security concerns, but residents are limiting their movements because of fear.”
According to the commissioner, insecurity is also affecting education, with some parents keeping their children at home because of fears linked to previous attacks during school hours.
A police officer who spoke to this publication on condition of anonymity because of fear of reprisals said civilians are already facing serious challenges, including hunger, lack of clean drinking water, inadequate shelter and disruption to education.
“Our people can’t get thatching grass for their shelters, and there is too much hunger and lack of education,” the officer said.
Meanwhile, Paul Badisita, a Tambura community leader, blamed the insecurity on SPLA-IO elements, alleging that armed groups linked to the opposition movement have been involved in killings, abductions and looting in parts of the county.
He said residents are particularly afraid because of reports of armed groups in areas around Mamenze, Ngoni, Duma, Namatina and Nabanga.
He called for peace, unity and freedom of movement for civilians.
Acting Chief Inspector of police Charles Makana called for additional government support, including transportation, community dialogue, training and workshops aimed at bringing communities together.
Commissioner Mupaya urged residents to remain alert and called on the national government to deploy additional forces to protect civilians.
“I appeal to armed and political groups to respect the peace agreement and pursue their interests through peaceful political processes,” he said.
This publication could not independently verify the reports of a planned SPLA-IO attack or the allegations made by the community members. Efforts to reach SPLM-IO representatives for comment were unsuccessful. Radio Tamazuj will continue to follow up on the security situation in Tambura and report any developments.
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