With the rising cases of armed attacks, authorities in Tombura fear that the attackers could be exploiting security lapses to cause mayhem

By Emmanuel Mandella

A police officer was fatally shot by unknown gunmen and over 20million South Sudanese Pounds stolen in a chilling robbery incident in Tombura County, Western Equatoria State.

According to local authorities, unidentified gunmen stormed a petrol station operated by Somali traders in Tombura County at around 9:00 p.m. on Friday and shot the officer on guard, identified as Philip Sanango. The robbers then made away with cash at gunpoint before fleeing the scene.

“A group of criminals attacked the petrol station, shot and killed one officer, threatened the Somali workers, and escaped with the money. This is unacceptable. We call on the public to report any suspicious activities,” Tombura County Commissioner Mabenge Mathew Edward told The City Review in an exclusive interview.

Four Somali employees were also assaulted but survived the terrifying ordeal. The attackers made away with the slain police officer’s firearm, raising concerns over armed criminal groups operating freely in the area.

As the pattern of violence resurfaces, this deadly attack is the latest in a string of violent incidents that have plagued Tombura County since mid-2021, when inter-communal clashes between armed groups including SPLM-IO factions, community defense groups, and local militias claimed hundreds of lives and displaced tens of thousands.

According to a UNMISS report in 2022, the conflict in Tombura led to more than 80 deaths in a single month, with widespread lootings, sexual violence, and burning of homes reported.

Despite the deployment of joint security forces in late 2022 and several peace dialogues led by church and community leaders, the security situation remains fragile.

“The government must increase patrols to protect communities so that people can live peacefully and focus on producing food,” Commissioner Mabenge urged.

Confirming the incident, Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut, Police Commissioner in Western Equatoria State said investigations are underway.

Misuse of firearms

The Police Commissioner also reported a separate incident on the same night in Yambio, where an unidentified soldier fired gunshots into the air, causing panic among residents.

“We are actively pursuing leads, and the culprits must be brought to justice. Lawlessness cannot be tolerated,” Maj. Gen. Madut stated.

Meanwhile, Tombura County Acting Paramount Chief Thomas Bandaisa said the identity and motive of the attackers remain unknown but hinted that organized criminal elements may be exploiting security lapse in the region to cause mayhem.

“Our people are tired of violence. We want peace and security, not more bloodshed,” Bandaisa said.

While Calling for Action, residents in Tombura County say the latest attack has renewed trauma for a community still recovering from recent waves of conflict. Many are demanding tighter security measures, regular patrols, and disarmament of illegal groups still operating in the shadows.

Humanitarian organizations working in the area, including the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CODEP) and Caritas, have warned that rising insecurity threatens ongoing relief operations and could push vulnerable communities into deeper crisis.

As investigations continue, the killing of officer Philip Sanango now adds another name to the growing list of victims in Tombura’s long-standing battle with violence. Collaborative efforts must now be embraced to bring violence to a halt.