Gunfire Erupts Across Yambio
The first gunshots rattled Yambio at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, sweeping through Napere, Masia, Ikpiro and the town centre. Residents reported continuous bursts that lasted deep into the night, a rare intensity even for a region familiar with occasional insecurity.
Human Toll and Hospital Strain
By dawn, Yambio State Hospital had received two bodies bearing gunshot wounds and four wounded civilians, Medical Director Dr. Konjo Samuel confirmed. “Some patients are critical and under observation,” he told Sudans Post, adding that trauma supplies were stretched by the sudden influx.
Looting Adds Economic Pain
While volleys echoed, unidentified armed men reportedly forced entry into homes and shops, stripping shelves of goods and households of basic belongings. A Masia resident said property vanished overnight, leaving families “sleeping in fear” and amplifying economic hardships already linked to rising living costs.
Authorities Move to Stabilise
Governor James Al-Taib Jazz Berapi swiftly urged calm, vowed a deployment of security forces and directed an investigation aimed at “holding perpetrators accountable.” In a radio statement, he encouraged residents to cooperate and limit night travel until troops secure affected neighborhoods.
Education and Communication Disrupted
The classroom bell remained silent on Monday as school heads assessed whether lessons could continue under sporadic gunfire. Students and parents voiced anxiety, fearing commutes exposed to violence. Compounding worries, limited electricity left many phones uncharged, hampering emergency calls and official updates.
Community Voices and Next Steps
Traditional leaders caution that prolonged unrest might unravel recent peace gains in Western Equatoria. They appeal for swift reconciliation talks alongside the security operation. For many households, the immediate hope is simple: a quiet night that allows children to sleep and traders to reopen.