The commissioner of Eastern Equatoria State’s Torit County has confirmed that two teenage girls were shot dead and another was injured along the Hiyala-Oguruny Road on Sunday when they were ambushed while returning from a grinding mill located at the Hiyala Payam headquarters.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, Lokang Charles Italian identified the deceased as Haba Oroto and Ihiram Omunung, both 17 years of age, and the injured girl as Hidita Ofere. He said the latter is receiving treatment at the hospital.
According to the commissioner, vigilant youth from Iloli and Oguruny, along with some SSPDF soldiers stationed near Hiyala, tracked the assailants’ footprints and identified a suspect from Iloli village, who is currently on the run.
“The three children were attacked along the Hiyala-Oguruny Road while carrying sorghum for grinding,” he said. “It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the loss of Haba Oroto and Ihiram Omunung, while Hidita Ofere is now receiving medical attention for her injuries.”
Lokang condemned the attack and urged the people of Oguruny to refrain from retaliatory actions, emphasizing that the Torit County authorities will handle the situation.
He praised the Iloli Community for their courage in identifying the perpetrator.
“I condemn this incident in the strongest terms; it cannot be overlooked, and the county authority will take action. Our children, women, and the entire population in various parts of Hiyala Payam have suffered significantly,” he stated. “I urge the people of Oguruny to remain calm and allow the authorities to manage this matter. I also call on the residents of Iloli to distance themselves from further acts of violence. I appreciate their willingness to come forward with the name of the culprit, as such transparency is vital in addressing insecurity in their community.”
Meanwhile, Mrs. Kulang Vicky Daniel, the deputy chairperson of the Eastern Equatoria State Civil Society Organizations Network, also condemned the heinous killings, emphasizing the need for justice and the protection of innocent citizens in the region.
“On behalf of the civil society, we strongly denounce the killing of these two girls and the injury of one by their attackers. This represents a great loss to their families and the entire community,” she said. “We demand accountability, enhanced protection for vulnerable groups, and prompt action from the authorities to apprehend those responsible.”
“Violence against girls and women should never be tolerated, and we stand in solidarity with the affected families during this extremely difficult time,” Vicky added.
Attempts to reach the sub-chiefs of Iloli and Oguruny for comment were futile.