SPLA-IO Forces Accused of Ambushes Along Juba–Terekeka Road

Incidents on May 1st

• SSPDF Spokesperson accuses SPLA-IO forces of two deadly ambushes
• First ambush between Koda and Nyori leaves one person dead

The recent incidents along the Juba–Terekeka Road have once again highlighted the ongoing security challenges faced by travelers in South Sudan. The SSPDF Spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, has pointed fingers at SPLA-IO forces for carrying out two deadly ambushes on May 1st, resulting in a tragic loss of life.

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Details of the Ambushes

According to the statement released by Gen. Lul, the first ambush took place between Koda and Nyori, where a commercial truck traveling from Bahr el Ghazal to Juba was attacked. The vehicle was set ablaze, and tragically, one Somali national lost his life in the incident.

The second ambush occurred at the same location, targeting a 30-ton truck heading from Terekeka to Gok-Machar in Aweil North County, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State. The truck, carrying commercial goods, was hijacked by suspected SPLA-IO forces and taken towards an SPLA-IO base known as “Bai Bai.”

However, the truck broke down before reaching its destination, leading the attackers to offload the cargo in a nearby bush. The crew members were subjected to a harrowing 48-hour ordeal, with reports of torture and theft of personal belongings.

Rescue Operation

Fortunately, forces from the National Security Service – Internal Security Bureau (NSS-ISB), under the command of Col. Makoi Mayiei, were able to intervene and rescue four of the six abducted crew members. The rescued hostages, including South Sudanese and Sudanese nationals, were fortunate to escape the clutches of their captors.

Denial from SPLA-IO

On the other hand, the SPLA-IO Spokesperson, Col. Lam Paul Gabriel, has vehemently denied the accusations leveled against the opposition group. Col. Lam stated that the SPLA-IO forces do not target civilians and urged the SSPDF to take responsibility for the incidents along the Juba–Terekeka Road.

As the conflicting narratives unfold, it is clear that the security situation in South Sudan remains volatile, with innocent civilians often caught in the crossfire of armed confrontations. Both sides must prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens, ensuring that incidents like these do not recur in the future.

In conclusion, the recent ambushes along the Juba–Terekeka Road serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by travelers in conflict-affected regions. It is imperative for all parties involved to prioritize peace and stability, working towards a future where such incidents are nothing but a distant memory.