Authorities in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) say they have launched investigations into last Thursday’s fatal attack on the mobile service engineering company, Universal Service Access Fund (USAF) convoy.
The firm’s trucks carrying communication towers and construction materials en route to Gumuruk were attacked in Kathelen, Manyabol Payam.
The firm’s construction engineers were assaulted along with the drivers, according to the National Communication Authority (NCA).
In a statement on Monday, Gola Boyoi Gola, the Chief Administrator of GPAA, condemned the attack, saying investigations have been launched into the incident.
“We are seriously concerned by the recent incident in Kathelen, Manyabol Payam of Gumuruk County, on Thursday, May 23, 2024, where criminals attacked vehicles carrying network items and killed one security personnel. This senseless act of violence not only endangers the lives of our citizens but also disrupts the flow of essential services to our people,” he said.
Gola assured the public that authorities were committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice, adding that plans were in place to ensure the safety and security of travellers in the region.
He further stated that security personnel had been directed to recover the stolen items from the firm’s engineers.
“Our administration is resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all travellers, including those who are providing essential services to our communities,” Gola added.
The National Communication Authority (NCA) condemned the incident, saying it hinders development efforts in the GPAA, which desperately needs communication services.