Morobo Bridge Project Suffers Setback After Arson

(MOROBO) – A group of unidentified armed individuals has allegedly torched a heavy construction excavator at the Kendila Boma bridge construction site in Morobo County, Central Equatoria State, according to local officials. The incident occurred on Thursday evening, with authorities suggesting the attackers are likely members of an anti-government rebel group operating in the area. The excavator had been abandoned at the site since May, when ongoing clashes forced construction crews and engineers to evacuate for safety reasons. The Kendila bridge project, a key infrastructure link between Morobo County and neighbouring Kajo-Keji County, had been paused for over two months due to insecurity in the region. Local officials confirmed that no security personnel were deployed to guard the site, leaving equipment and materials vulnerable to looting and sabotage. The destruction of the excavator marks another serious blow to development efforts in the region. Hon. Charles Data Bullen, Commissioner of Morobo County, condemned the act, describing it as a deliberate attempt to sabotage peace and recovery efforts in Central Equatoria State. “This is an unfortunate and unacceptable incident,” Commissioner Data said. “The Kendila bridge was intended to improve connectivity and ease the movement of our people. Destroying such vital infrastructure only worsens the suffering of ordinary civilians.” No armed group has officially claimed responsibility, but the region has seen repeated clashes between government forces and rebel factions in recent months. Armed violence in Morobo has led to disruptions in health services, humanitarian aid delivery, and now infrastructure development. The destruction comes just weeks after a separate armed group raided the county’s main hospital, raising fresh concerns over the vulnerability of public infrastructure and the safety of personnel working in the county. Kendila bridge, once completed, would serve as the only major road link between Morobo and Kajo-Keji counties. Its destruction or delay in construction could further isolate communities and complicate access to essential services, trade, and humanitarian relief. With tensions continuing in the region, local leaders and residents are urging both national and state authorities to prioritise security along key development corridors to prevent future sabotage and ensure continuity of critical public service works.