Transport along the main road linking the counties of Duk and Uror in South Sudan’s Jonglei State has been temporarily suspended due to insecurity fears there, authorities said.
The suspension comes after Thursday’s incident in which a convoy carrying food aid destined for the greater Lou areas was attacked by unidentified armed bandits at the outskirts of Duk’s Gadiang area. The attackers have reportedly stolen some food items during the incident.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj Friday, Tang Chatim, the Uror County commissioner, said the road will remain closed until the safety for road users is guaranteed.
“Some local youth and security forces have gone to assess the area. we are waiting for their report and hopefully, within the next two days the road may reopen,” he said.
Tang added, “The reason for the closure is that there is fear because, on Thursday morning, a convoy of 40 vehicles carrying food to the areas of Yuai, Pathai, and Walgak was attacked between Gadiang and Uror. The attackers looted 200 sacks of grains from one of the vehicles. No one was killed or injured.”
The county official condemned the attack, saying the incident comes amidst looming hunger in parts of his county.
For his part, Major Majak Daniel Tuor, the Jonglei State police spokesperson, confirmed the incident without providing details, saying an investigation is still ongoing.