JUBA – An advisor to the Eastern Equatoria State government was wounded after unknown armed men ambushed his convoy along the Kapoeta–Torit Road on Friday, one month after the killing of Kapoeta East County Commissioner Stephen Lowosio Lomongin.
Epone Emmanuel Lolimo, the state’s Advisor on Special Programs, sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh when his vehicle came under attack at Nyibira Boma in Hiyala Payam, Torit County, according to a statement issued Saturday by the Office of the Governor.
The ambush occurred on July 10 along the road between Hiyala and Chalamini, near Hiyala Village, as Epone was travelling from Kapoeta to Torit following the commemoration of South Sudan’s 15th independence anniversary a day before.
He was accompanied by his bodyguard, driver, popular musicians Check B and Ayama G, as well as several youths from Kapoeta when the attack took place.
The governor’s office said Epone was the only person injured in the incident. He survived the attack and was later airlifted to Juba for specialised treatment.
“Hon. Epone survived the attack and was later airlifted to Juba for specialised medical treatment. His condition remains stable,” the statement said.
The Eastern Equatoria State government condemned the attack and called on security agencies to identify and arrest those responsible.
“The Government of Eastern Equatoria State has strongly condemned the attack and called upon the relevant security agencies to pursue the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” the statement said.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to improving security along the Kapoeta–Torit Highway, a vital route linking communities in the state, saying additional efforts would be made to protect travellers and residents living along the corridor.
The attack comes amid renewed concerns over deteriorating security in Hiyala Payam, where a series of armed ambushes have been reported in recent days.
According to the governor’s office, the incidents have resulted in deaths, injuries and loss of property, raising fears among motorists and local communities that rely on the road.
The government urged members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities that could help prevent further attacks.
No group has claimed responsibility for Friday’s ambush, and authorities have not announced any arrests. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
