Tombura County Attack Intensifies Fear and Demands for Action on Insecurity in Western Equatoria
By Emmanuel Mandella
Tragedy struck in Tombura County on December 10, 2024, when unidentified gunmen attacked a church compound sheltering displaced persons, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving another injured. This shocking incident has escalated calls for immediate government action to combat the persistent insecurity plaguing the region.
Eyewitnesses and former officials claim that the assailants, reportedly affiliated with a faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO), targeted the innocent civilians with indiscriminate gunfire. “Two displaced persons, a man and a woman, lost their lives, and a young woman sustained an injury to her leg,” stated Prince Justin John, a former SPLA-IO officer.
Details from the scene indicate that the gunmen approached the camp from the Tombura airstrip, positioning themselves near St. Mary Primary School before unleashing a barrage of automatic fire using PKM and AK-47 rifles. The attackers retreated in the same direction after the assault, which took place mere meters from an army barracks, triggering concerns about potential collusion between militia members and displaced persons seeking refuge there.
Tombura County has been increasingly marred by violence over the past three years, plagued by killings and widespread property destruction. Despite numerous reports and investigations presented to the national government, little to no concrete action has been taken to ameliorate the dire security situation.
“The inaction from authorities in Yambio and Juba has emboldened those perpetrating these atrocities,” lamented a local source who wished to remain anonymous due to safety fears. The frustration is palpable among the community, with many calling for greater accountability from their leaders.
Former State Minister of Finance William Baiki has leveled allegations against Western Equatoria State Governor Lt. Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karabu, claiming that he is complicit in the ongoing conflict. Baiki accused the governor of providing financial resources, weapons, and ammunition to factions involved in the Tombura violence and of producing counterfeit currency funding militia activities. These allegations, however, have not led to any significant governmental response or accountability measures.
Local residents have expressed deep discontent over the government’s perceived inaction. “What more evidence does the government need to address this situation happening under the leadership of Futuyo? We are living in constant fear, and our leaders need to prioritize peace,” Prince Justin John echoed the sentiments of many frustrated citizens.
Observers argue that addressing the insecurity in Tombura County demands a multifaceted approach. This includes holding accountable those complicit in the conflict, disarming militias, and fostering reconciliation among local communities.
Attempts to reach Governor Alfred Futuyo and other relevant officials for comments were unsuccessful at the time of publication. As violence rages on, the communities of Tombura County and Western Equatoria State continue to implore the government for urgent and decisive action to restore peace and security in the region.
