Ambush Near Mogiri Leaves One Critical
A vehicle transporting Bor Community secretary-general Mayom Ateny Wai came under fire Wednesday afternoon close to Mogiri, Central Equatoria. Witnesses say gunmen opened fire without warning as the group travelled from Bor to Juba, forcing the driver to accelerate through the hail of bullets.
Madit Ateny Wai, the secretary-general’s brother, was hit three times, sustaining head and shoulder wounds. Hospital staff in Juba describe his condition as serious but stable after emergency surgery, while other passengers escaped with minor injuries.
Deadly Pattern on Juba-Bor Corridor
Eight Murle traders were reportedly killed in the same area a week earlier. Community leaders argue the cattle market near Mogiri has turned into a flashpoint, linking last week’s fatalities with Wednesday’s shooting in what they call a worrying escalation of roadside violence.
Government Urged to Strengthen Patrols
“My car is not the first to be attacked,” Mayom told local radio, urging authorities to either relocate or temporarily close the market he considers a haven for armed criminals. Observers say increased checkpoints and joint patrols could restore confidence to traders and commuters.
Pibor Authorities Reject Accusations
Greater Pibor Administrative Area information minister Jacob Werchum Juok dismissed allegations of Murle involvement, asserting, “Blaming our people is wrong; an impartial investigation is needed.” He added that his office has yet to receive an official incident report from security organs.
Road Security Outlook
Security analysts caution that unresolved communal grievances continue to complicate policing along South Sudan’s arterial roads. Until investigations yield arrests and prosecutors secure convictions, travellers on the Juba-Bor route may remain vulnerable to copy-cat attacks, undermining trade and humanitarian access.