Yei Civil Society Condemns Killing of Three Civilians, Demands Investigation

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Yei Civil Society Organization Forum (YCSOF) has strongly condemned the killing of three civilians in Tokori Boma, Yei River County, and called for a transparent investigation into the incident.

In a statement issued on Monday, the civil society umbrella body described the killings as a tragic act of violence that occurred during celebrations marking South Sudan’s 15th Independence Anniversary.

According to the statement, a cattle trader travelling from Yei Town to purchase cattle from members of the Ambororo community was reportedly killed at the 17-Mile area along the Yei-Maridi Road on Independence Day. The assailants allegedly stole all the victim’s money before fleeing the scene.

The Forum further alleged that following the incident, a group of armed civilians forcefully took motorcycles and travelled to Tokori Boma, where two young men were killed, one person was injured, and several others, including the Executive Chief of Tokori Boma, were assaulted. Three motorcycles were also reportedly set on fire during the violence.

Among those killed was Lerida Joseph Likambu, a staff member of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS), according to the statement.

The Yei Civil Society Organization Forum condemned what it described as road ambushes and retaliatory violence that continue to claim lives and destroy property.

“We urge communities to avoid acts of revenge and instead seek lawful and peaceful means of resolving grievances through the relevant authorities,” the statement read.

The organisation called on county authorities to conduct a transparent investigation into the incident, bring those responsible to justice, and address growing security concerns in the affected areas.

YCSOF also urged state and national authorities to address issues relating to the presence of Ambororo pastoralists in Tokori and Tore areas, which it said have become a source of tension among local communities.

In addition, the Forum questioned existing security measures along the Yei-Tore Road, alleging that the attackers were able to pass through several military-manned checkpoints before carrying out the attacks and returning to town without being intercepted.

The statement was signed by Modi Archangelo, Chairperson of the Yei Civil Society Organization Forum.

The latest incident has raised fresh concerns over security along major roads around Yei, with community leaders and civil society groups calling for improved protection of civilians and stronger measures to prevent further violence.