A woman was assaulted and robbed at gunpoint in her home in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, on Saturday night, with assailants stealing two mobile phones and an undisclosed amount of money that belonged to her church, according to local authorities and community leaders.
The incident occurred in the Akorogbodi Residential Area, about four kilometers from Yambio town, when four armed men broke into the house.
A community leader, who spoke to Radio Tamazuj on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said the victim is a farmer and a member of a church group. The stolen money was church contributions she was keeping at home.
“The exact amount of money is not known because only the church secretary knows the total,” the community leader said.
He appealed to residents to report armed robberies and gun-related crimes to police to help curb rising insecurity in Yambio County.
Another community leader, also speaking anonymously due to fear of retaliation, said criminals are taking advantage of the Christmas season, when people are likely to be carrying more money.
“People should help each other when someone is attacked. We should not ignore cries for help,” he said. “Community members should also avoid moving late at night.”
A women’s leader and government official condemned the attack, calling it a serious crime.
“Robbing a woman in her own home is unacceptable. If you hear or suspect an attack, raise your voice and help your neighbor,” she said.
Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong confirmed the incident, saying the assailants fled with phones, money and other items.
“No one was injured or killed during the incident, apart from the loss of property,” Madut said.
He said security forces will be deployed to conduct patrols in Yambio and surrounding areas to enhance protection during the festive season. Official emergency contact numbers will be shared with the public Monday to improve coordination between the community and security forces, he added.