The incident occurred early Thursday morning, sending shockwaves across the community and raising fresh concerns about the safety of commercial motorcyclists in the county.

By Emmanuel Mandella

A boda-boda rider is fighting for his life after a passenger he had picked up turned violent, attacking him with a panga in a shocking robbery near the Yambio Airstrip in Bazungua Payam, just five kilometers from Yambio Town in Western Equatoria State.

The brazen attack occurred at around 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, sending shockwaves through the community and sparking renewed concerns over the safety of commercial motorcyclists in the region.

According to State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong, the rider had been hired by a man posing as a passenger. “Upon reaching a less populated area, the suspect drew a panga and viciously attacked the unsuspecting rider before fleeing with his red Boxer motorcycle. The bike has not yet been recovered,” he told The City Review in an exclusive interview on Friday.

The wounded rider was later discovered unconscious and bleeding by the roadside in Bodo Boma, Bazungua Payam. He was rushed to Yambio State Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Authorities have not released his identity.

Maj. Gen. Madut urged residents of Ibba County, Madebe Payam, and surrounding areas to remain alert and report any individual seen riding or attempting to sell a red Boxer motorcycle under suspicious circumstances.

Bazungua Payam Chief Mathew Wiri Nvuru strongly condemned the attack and urged boda-boda riders to exercise caution—particularly when taking early morning or late-night trips.

“These criminals are taking advantage of vulnerable hours. We urge riders to avoid operating during these times to reduce their risk of becoming targets,” he said.

Security forces have launched a manhunt for the assailant, who remains at large. Community elders, leaders, and local security committees have pledged full support to the investigation.

This latest incident mirrors a disturbing trend. Between 2013 and 2019, numerous boda-boda riders in Yambio and surrounding areas were killed or seriously injured in similar attacks—many of which remain unresolved.

Oliver James, an adviser with the Yambio and Nzara Boda-Boda Association, expressed frustration over the ongoing threats facing their members.

“We’ve buried too many of our colleagues,” he lamented. “Our riders not only face robbery and violence, but also struggle with poor roads, lack of insurance, and minimal legal protections. We need immediate government action.”

Across South Sudan, boda-boda riders continue to face mounting challenges—from criminal attacks and harassment by rogue security agents to the burden of maintaining motorcycles amid soaring fuel costs.

“Boda-boda riders are the backbone of local transport,” Oliver added. “Yet we’re left unprotected. Riders need reflective jackets, helmets, proper identification, and community support systems. Without these, such tragedies will persist.”

The incident has reignited urgent calls for enhanced security patrols, community surveillance initiatives, and rider registration programs to ensure greater safety and accountability.

Authorities are appealing to the public to support ongoing investigations and report any suspicious activity. Meanwhile, riders across Western Equatoria continue to work in fear, hoping for justice—and a safer future.