The Acting Governor of Jonglei State, Atong Kuol Manyang, has called for calm following reports of heavy gunfire in Bor town after an explosion at a local armory on Wednesday evening.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Atong confirmed that the loud sounds of gunfire were caused by an explosion at the Malual Chaat Military Barracks, located a few kilometers south of Bor town.
“The heavy gunfire heard in Jonglei State is a result of an explosion at the armory in the Malual Chaat Military Barracks,” Atong said.
The acting governor reassured residents that authorities are managing the situation and emphasized there is no immediate threat.
“The situation is under control, and there is no cause for alarm,” she said, urging the community to remain calm and avoid panic.
The explosion has caused fear and panic in Bor, with many residents fleeing to nearby bushes for safety.
The cause of the explosion remains unclear.
This is not the first incident involving the armory in Bor. In March of last year, a fire broke out at the same facility, prompting civil society activists to call for its relocation to prevent potential harm to civilians.