By Riak Chol

The Commissioner of Nyirol County, Peter Gatkuoth Koang Dhuor, has strongly condemned the bombardment of the main civilian market in Lankien town, Jonglei State, describing it as an unacceptable attack on civilian life and livelihoods.

According to an official statement issued on Thursday, the bombardment occurred at approximately 11:20 a.m. on 4 February 2026 and directly struck the central market of Lankien.

Commissioner Gatkuoth said he personally visited the site and witnessed widespread destruction.

“I personally visited the site of the bombardment and saw the level of destruction caused to the civilian market and surrounding areas,” he said. “Food stocks, essential goods, and small businesses that sustain many families were completely destroyed.”

The commissioner described Lankien market as the main source of food and income for civilians in the town, warning that its destruction has left many households facing severe hardship.

“This market is the backbone of civilian survival in Lankien,” he said. “Its destruction has left many families without income, without food, and without the basic means of survival.”

He added that the bombardment reportedly created fear and panic among residents, forcing traders and civilians to flee the area, citing that Women, children, and elderly civilians were among those most affected.

“The bombardment created widespread fear and panic among innocent civilians,” Gatkuoth said. “Women, children, and the elderly have been severely affected, both by the attack itself and by the sudden loss of their only dependable source of livelihood.”

In his statement, the commissioner strongly condemned the targeting of civilian centers, emphasizing that such actions violate fundamental principles of civilian protection.

“The bombardment of civilian centers and sources of livelihood is unacceptable and deeply alarming,” he said. “Civilian lives, civilian property, and civilian markets must be respected and protected at all times.”

The Office of the Commissioner called on the United Nations, African Union, IGAD, UNMISS, and humanitarian organizations to urgently intervene and support the affected population.

“We call upon the international community to urgently take note of this bombardment and to support the people of Lankien,” he said.

“There is an immediate need for humanitarian assistance and stronger measures to ensure the protection of civilians.”Hee added

Commissioner Gatkuoth reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting civilians in Nyirol County and expressed solidarity with those affected.

“The people of Nyirol County deserve safety, dignity, and protection from violence, We stand in solidarity with all those affected by this bombardment.” He said.