The Office of the Governor announced the development on Saturday, saying the operation was carried out by state security forces with the support of the Monyemiji (youth) of Hiyala Village.
The arrests come a day after unknown armed men ambushed the vehicle of the state’s Advisor on Special Programs, Hon. Epone Emmanuel Lolimo, at Nyibira Boma in Hiyala Payam, Torit County, leaving him with a gunshot wound to the thigh.
According to the governor’s office, the two suspects have been identified as Oyom Emmanuel Ikuyong and Wani Simon Mariko.
“The Eastern Equatoria State Security Forces, with the support of the Monyemiji of Hiyala Village, have apprehended two suspects believed to be connected to the ambush on the Advisor’s vehicle,” the statement said.
Authorities said a third suspect died during the operation after sustaining what they described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“During the security operation, a third suspect reportedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while inside a house where he had taken refuge,” the statement added.
The government praised the joint operation, commending both the security personnel and the Monyemiji of Hiyala Village for their cooperation in tracking down the suspects.
“The State Government has commended the professionalism and cooperation demonstrated by the security forces and the Monyemiji of Hiyala Village, whose support contributed significantly to the successful operation,” it said.
The state government also expressed concern over what it described as a growing presence of criminal elements operating from parts of Hiyala Payam, an area that has recently witnessed a string of armed attacks targeting road users along the Kapoeta–Torit highway.
It urged residents to work closely with security agencies by reporting suspected criminals and warned that anyone found sheltering or assisting criminal groups would face legal action.
“The Government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace, security, and the rule of law across Eastern Equatoria State,” the statement said.
The advisor, Epone Emmanuel Lolimo, was airlifted to Juba after the ambush for specialized medical treatment. The state government has said his condition is stable.
Authorities have not disclosed the motive behind the attack or whether additional suspects are being pursued.
