Soldier arrested after shooting incident at Yambio nightclub, one civilian injured

YAMBIO – The government of Western Equatoria State has confirmed the arrest of a South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldier linked to a shooting incident at Nakis Nightclub in Yambio, an attack that left one civilian seriously injured.

According to Acting Governor Justin Joseph Marona, the incident occurred at around 11:00 p.m. on Wednesday when the soldier, who was off duty at the time, allegedly began shouting before firing several rounds inside the crowded entertainment venue. Panic quickly spread among patrons as they scrambled for safety. The gunfire struck one civilian, who survived but sustained serious injuries.

“My office received an alert around 11 p.m. about gunshots at Nakis Club. Security teams were immediately dispatched to the area and found the soldier wearing his uniform and carrying a firearm. He was immediately detained and questioned,” Marona told Sudans Post.

The Acting Governor strongly condemned the incident, describing it as an “unacceptable act” that threatens public safety and undermines the discipline expected from organized forces. He emphasized that the government would not tolerate any misuse of firearms by security personnel.

“No one should carry firearms off duty or misuse them to threaten civilians. Anyone found violating this will face legal action,” he warned, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to enforcing professional conduct within the security sector.

Marona revealed that the government has established a special committee to investigate the circumstances of the shooting executed by the soldier, whose identity was not revealed at the time of writing. He noted that this latest incident comes barely a week after a similar case in which a young boy was shot and injured, raising concerns about firearm misuse in the state.

Police authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the motive behind the soldier’s actions. Meanwhile, the injured civilian is receiving medical treatment at Yambio State Hospital. Officials have withheld the victim’s identity as inquiries continue.

The acting governor assured residents that calm has been restored and that security forces are working to maintain peace in Yambio. He urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities during ongoing investigations.