Inquiry Begins Into Morobo River Killing

(MOROBO COUNTY) – The Commissioner of Morobo County, Charles Data Bullen, has ordered all organised security forces to launch an immediate and full investigation into the killing of a local entrepreneur and the reported assault of his wife by an armed attacker.

The victim, Simon Bidali, widely known as Bangutu, was killed late on the night of 28 January 2025. Family members said during his funeral in Ududra that an armed man broke into the family home around midnight, stole cash and other property, and forced Bidali and his wife to Adekede River, where Bidali was shot dead.

Speaking at the family home on the morning after the incident, Commissioner Data said preliminary and unconfirmed reports indicated that an individual carrying a rifle had been seen moving in the area earlier but the information was not reported to authorities. He warned that failure to report suspicious activity puts the wider community at risk.

The commissioner urged residents to report any unusual movements or security concerns to the relevant forces without delay to help prevent similar incidents.

He said the suspect remains unidentified and directed all security agencies in the county to use every available means to establish the identity of the attacker and bring the person to justice.

Commissioner Data strongly condemned the killing and said it followed another fatal shooting about three weeks earlier in which a youth aged 24 was killed. He described the incidents as a worrying trend affecting young business people and said such violence would not be tolerated.

He said the county administration remains committed to protecting lives and property and to restoring public safety across Morobo County.

The commissioner also expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them of the county government’s support during the investigation.

The Office of the Commissioner called on the public to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and continue supporting efforts to maintain peace and stability in Morobo County.

The statement was issued by the Office of the Commissioner in Morobo County.