CES Government Condemns Brutal Killing of Civilians in Jebel Iraq Attack

(JUBA / JEBEL IRAQ)  — Authorities in Central Equatoria State have on Monday issued a statement and strongly condemned the brutal killing of civilians in the Jebel Iraq area on Saturday evening, March 28.

According to an official statement dated March 30 and signed by Acting state Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede, the attack occurred in Khor Ghaltan, leaving several innocent civilians dead and others injured.

Obede blamed an unnamed rebel group for carrying out the attack.

“The government of Central Equatoria State is shocked and outraged by the barbaric and brutal killing of innocent civilians in Jebel Iraq’s Khor Ghaltan, which resulted in the killing and injuring of several people by rebel forces,” part of the statement reads.

The statement further condemned the violence in the strongest terms:

“We strongly condemn this heinous and barbaric act of violence and extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims.”

Obede described the killings as unacceptable and a violation of international humanitarian law. He said the government has already taken measures to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent similar incidents in the future.

“We recognize the impact of this tragedy on the affected civilians and assure them of our unwavering support during this difficult time,” he added.

The acting governor also called on citizens to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as efforts continue to restore peace and stability in the area.

The Jebel Iraq area, locally known as Kulipapa, is a gold-rich mining site and an active trading hub located in Ganji Payam of Juba County along the Juba-Lainya high way. The area hosts both local and international gold miners.