State Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa said the attacks, which have targeted villages, roads, and even security convoys, are being carried out by armed elements loyal to Futuyo, the former governor of the state and current SPLA-IO Acting Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations.
Rimbasa said the security situation has been deteriorating, citing earlier incidents in Bazungua, less than seven kilometres from Yambio town, where suspected fighters burned homes and a market, killing elderly residents.
Further attacks were reported in Yapuku (Bazumburu) and Makpandu, near a refugee camp, where civilians’ property was looted, and a Sudanese national was killed.
“These acts violate international humanitarian law and amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity,” the governor said, condemning the violence.
Road ambushes have also intensified, particularly along routes in Mundri East and West counties, where civilians have been targeted while travelling. Villages including Ketiba, Lakamadi, Wandi, and Minga have recorded casualties among women, children, and the elderly.
Security forces have also come under attack. Convoys heading to Maridi County were ambushed, resulting in casualties among government troops, while reconnaissance units between Ibba and Bangasu were attacked twice in a single day.
The governor said the pattern of violence suggests coordinated operations by armed groups aligned with Futuyo, adding that government forces have been forced to respond in self-defence to protect communities.
Rimbasa also raised concern over fresh movements of armed men, revealing that between 30 and 35 individuals were seen on Thursday near Manikakara in Ibba, moving toward the Congo border.
“These are not ordinary civilians,” he warned, adding that security agencies have been instructed to closely monitor the situation.
Despite the accusations, Rimbasa called on all armed groups to immediately cease hostilities.
“My mission is peace, not war. Western Equatoria must enjoy stability, where citizens can move freely without fear,” he said.
He also pointed to a positive development, noting that some fighters have begun defecting from armed groups and joining the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), describing it as a step toward restoring stability.
The state government reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and restoring lasting peace across Western Equatoria.
