Gunmen attack SSPDF garrison in Yambio, no casualties reported

YAMBIO – Armed elements allegedly loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) on Wednesday night attacked a South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) garrison in the Tindoka area of Yambio, Western Equatoria State, triggering panic among residents but leaving no reported casualties.

Witnesses said heavy gunfire erupted at around 8:30 p.m., with shots heard across Zambago and nearby neighbourhoods as the attackers targeted the military position. The exchange of fire reportedly lasted for some time before government forces regained full control of the area.

A resident and youth leader from Zambago told local media that the sound of sustained gunfire sent civilians scrambling for safety. “People were terrified when the shooting started, but calm returned later after security forces intervened,” he said.

Yambio County Mayor Fozia Abbas Barnaba confirmed the incident, describing it as an “anti-peace act” and assuring the public that the situation is under control. She said the attackers had previously attempted to strike the same garrison but were repelled.

“They came again last night but were defeated. Thank God no one was killed,” the mayor said, urging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious movements to security authorities.

Yambio County Commissioner Angelo Bakote also confirmed the attack and attributed rising insecurity in the area to illegal bush meat trade activities. He accused some bush meat dealers of fueling instability in Yambio and other parts of Western Equatoria State. According to the commissioner, local authorities are planning a crackdown on the trade as part of broader efforts to restore security.

By Thursday morning, officials said additional forces had been deployed to reinforce security around Tindoka and the surrounding areas. Authorities maintained that the situation had stabilised and that security agencies were closely monitoring developments.

The attack comes amid growing security concerns in Western Equatoria State. In recent weeks, violence has also been reported in other locations, including Makpandu refugee camp, where earlier clashes reportedly resulted in casualties.

The state governor returned to Yambio on Wednesday from Juba as tensions escalated, signalling heightened attention from the state leadership. Local authorities say efforts are ongoing to prevent further violence and reassure the public.

Attempts to reach the state police commissioner for additional comment were unsuccessful by press time.