Civil society condemns repeated abductions, attacks along Yambio–Juba road

Civil society groups in Western Equatoria State have condemned repeated attacks along the Yambio–Juba road, where dozens of people have reportedly been abducted and vehicles burned in recent days.

The Network for Civil Society Organizations in Western Equatoria State cited a September 27 incident along the road between Lanyi and Lui in Mundri East County.

The network said unidentified gunmen ambushed vehicles, abducted more than 20 people and burned two vehicles during the attack.

In a statement today, the civil society network called on authorities to urgently investigate the incident and establish the whereabouts of the civilians reportedly taken into captivity.

It also urged security authorities to strengthen the protection of civilians along the road and take measures to prevent further attacks against passengers and motorists.

The network expressed solidarity with the affected civilians, their families and communities.

“We stand in solidarity with the affected persons, families and communities, and call for the immediate and safe release of all civilians still under captivity,” the network said.

The reported abductions have raised concerns about the security situation along the Yambio–Juba corridor, particularly for civilians travelling through remote sections of the road.

Civil society organizations are calling for a coordinated response from the relevant authorities to improve the safety of road users and restore confidence among communities that depend on the route.

The network also called for those responsible for the attack to be held accountable in accordance with the law and for affected civilians to receive the necessary protection and support.