Armed criminals stole more than 35 million South Sudanese pounds and looted at least eight shops during a night-time robbery in Mvolo County, Western Equatoria State, residents said Friday.
The attack occurred late Thursday when unidentified assailants broke into several business premises in Mvolo town, fleeing with cash and assorted goods, according to local residents.
Several witnesses told Radio Tamazuj that the attackers specifically targeted traders who kept money inside their shops.
“One trader alone lost about 8 million South Sudanese pounds,” one resident said. “The thieves broke in and took everything. Other traders also lost money and goods.”
Another resident, Moses Kalou, said the attackers entered Mvolo town from an unknown direction during the night.
“According to the traders, more than 35 million pounds was stolen from different shops,” Kalou said. “In total, eight shops were broken into, leaving many business owners shocked and suffering.”
Kalou said local authorities were still assessing the losses and working to identify affected traders. He urged the Western Equatoria State government and security forces to strengthen protection for communities and businesses.
The bishop of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan and Sudan in Mvolo County, John Abraham, condemned the robbery and called for an end to crime in the area.
“What is happening is not right,” Abraham said. “Stealing, robbery and killing are against God’s will. People should fear God, love one another and stop attacking each other.”
Police have yet to confirm the incident.
Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong, the Western Equatoria State police commissioner, told Radio Tamazuj that the state’s 10 counties remained calm and said his office had not received an official report on the Mvolo robbery.