Two SSPDF officers killed, six injured in ambush on state government convoy in Eastern Equatoria

TORIT – The Government of Eastern Equatoria State has confirmed that two senior officers from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) were killed and six others injured after suspected SPLM-IO fighters ambushed a government convoy on Tuesday morning in Moti Boma, Ifwotu Payam of Torit County.

According to a press statement issued by the State Minister of Information and Communication, Hon. Mark Lotiyu, the attack occurred at around 9:30 AM on December 9 as the Acting Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Hon. Akileo Mbeya, was leading a high-level delegation to meet displaced communities in Ifwotu Payam.

The delegation included the Technical Advisor on Security and Governance, the Division Seven Commander, the Director of National Security, the Assistant Police Commissioner, and SPLM-IO officers who recently joined the SSPDF: Major General Dr Kobos Milton, Major General Ceaser Oromo, Major General Mathew Aharanya, alongside Col. Alfred Angalafa and other military and government officials.

The officials were assessing the humanitarian conditions of civilians who fled their mountainous villages after being displaced by SPLM-IO forces and are now sheltered around the Igele Farm area.

However, the convoy was ambushed, triggering heavy gunfire. Two officers were killed: Major General Kobos Milton Odehi, 45, from the Lotuko community and Captain Samson Philip Kaku, 45, from the Abukaya community.

Six others were wounded. Two have been evacuated to Juba for further medical treatment, while the remaining officers are being treated at Torit State Hospital.

Lotiyu praised the late General Kobos as a peace-driven commander who abandoned rebellion and joined the SSPDF to help restore stability. “General Kobos paid the ultimate price for peace. His dedication to protecting civilians will forever be remembered,” he said.

Acting Governor Akileo Mbeya condemned the attack, describing it as “a desperate act by groups opposed to peace.” He urged the remaining SPLM-IO elements still in the bush to abandon violence and join the peace process.

“We will not allow criminals to destabilise our communities. The door to peace remains open for those willing to join,” Mbeya stated.

The government also appealed to communities in Ifwotu Payam and surrounding areas to cooperate with security forces by sharing information about armed groups.

“No area in Eastern Equatoria should become a sanctuary for those plotting violence,” Hon. Lotiyu added, warning that sympathisers of armed groups will be held accountable.

Mark Lotiyu said security deployments have been increased across the state as the festive season approaches. He assured citizens that the government remains fully committed to protecting civilians and restoring calm.

Brigadier General James Loku Lodinga, the Division Seven Commander, also spoke during the briefing, confirming that SSPDF forces have launched a pursuit operation aiming to prevent further attacks. He emphasised that the priority is the safety of civilians and minimising casualties.

“We will continue to secure the area until residents can return to their homes without fear,” Gen. Loku stated.

The Government of Eastern Equatoria reiterated its message of peace, urging communities to remain vigilant and united.