Armed youths abduct seven near Tambura

YAMBIO – At least seven people were kidnapped on Sunday afternoon near Tambura town in Western Equatoria State by a suspected armed youth group, according to a senior government official and a local resident.

Western Equatoria State Information Minister Isaac Mursal confirmed the kidnapping, which reportedly occurred at a place called Source Yube outside Tambura town at approximately 12:17 PM today.

The identity of the kidnappers remains unknown, and security forces are investigating.

“I can confirm that from the information we are getting that seven people who are mostly between 27 and 40 have been kidnapped. This incident occurred around 12:17 PM today, but we do not know who the kidnappers are,” Mursal said.

Mursal dismissed allegations that Governor Alfred Futuyo is involved in ongoing communal conflicts, calling it propaganda against the SPLM-IO by people he only identified as “enemies of peace.”

“This one is rubbish. The governor, since his appointment, has been doing his best to bring together the state, which was apart when he took over. Looking back, you will see that there is a difference between then and now,” he added.

Tambura town residents confirmed the kidnapping and expressed ongoing fear due to the alleged presence of Balanda armed youth in areas around the town in recent days.

“There has been fear in this part of the country because people are saying that Balanda youth have come here, and they were outside the town and wanted to storm in. So, today’s incident (the kidnapping) does not surprise me at all,” one resident said.

Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) Executive Director Edmund Yakani called on President Salva Kiir to declare a state of emergency in Tambura, citing the deteriorating security situation.

“CEPO is urging H.E. President Salva Kiir to declare a state of emergency in Tambura. The armed groups should be aware that we are documenting their actions, and we will campaign for them to be held accountable,” he warned.