The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) spokesperson has confirmed that unknown gunmen ambushed an interstate passenger bus along the Juba- Nimule Highway on Tuesday morning, setting it on fire and killing dozens of passengers, including soldiers.
The bus operated by Babeto Coach Services reportedly left Juba for Kampala early on in the morning before falling into an ambush at Lakarakak between Nyerjebe and Kubi.
Gen. Lul Ruai Koang told Radio Tamazuj that the SSPDF’s operation forces were able to disperse the attackers but said the number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.
“Yes, I have received that information from the operations department but we lack more information on the number of casualties inflicted on the passengers as well as the identity of the attackers,” he stated. “However, the operations department has responded by dispatching security personnel to the scene, and as soon as they give us more information, then we will extend it.”
For his part, Maj. David Khasmiro, the Inspector of Police in Nimule Town Council, also confirmed the incident but said they were also waiting for more details.
“The details of the information is not yet known but this incident happened between Kubi and Jebellen,” he said. “As we speak, the vehicle has been burnt but the details are not fully clear.”
The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) has condemned the attack on the bus and called on the government to deploy forces to protect travelers.
“The CPA is concerned about the radicalization of youth groups and the resulting frustration. The Government of South Sudan has an obligation to protect its citizens from physical harm and extremist violence,” the CPA statement reads. “The CPA urges the Government of South Sudan to deploy forces to ensure the protection of civilians across the country.”