Rebels abduct three, loot property in Nzara County attack

YAMBIO – At least three civilians were briefly abducted, and property worth nearly one million South Sudanese pounds was looted during an attack by suspected SPLA-IO rebels in Nzara County, Western Equatoria State, authorities and residents have said.

The incident occurred on Monday morning in the Ringasi area, where armed men reportedly ambushed civilians travelling on motorbikes. A resident, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the attackers stopped passengers and confiscated motorbikes, cash, and other personal belongings.

“We still don’t have reliable information, but we heard that their money, items, and other things were taken by the rebels,” the source said.

Nzara County Executive Director Daniel Bazia confirmed the attack, stating that approximately 25 armed men carried out the operation, heightening security concerns among local communities.

“More than 25 armed men carrying PKM guns arrested two boys and one girl. They beat them and took all their items, leaving them stranded. The three later managed to escape and reported the incident in Nzara,” Bazia said.

Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Samuel Tet also confirmed the incident, saying it took place at around 8 a.m. as passengers were travelling through the area on motorbikes.

“The victims reported that money, phones, about one million pounds, and their clothes and belongings were looted by the attackers,” Tet said.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and to avoid travelling in the early morning hours, when ambushes are more likely to occur. “Community members should report suspected cases and avoid travelling early in the morning to reduce the risk of ambush,” he added.

Local authorities say security forces are working to track down the perpetrators and reinforce protection in affected areas. Western Equatoria has witnessed a rise in insecurity in recent weeks, prompting repeated calls for communities to stay alert and cooperate with security agencies.