Sign against Rape
(LASU PAYAM / YEI RIVER COUNTY) – At least three women were reportedly gang raped and four men abducted by unidentified armed men in Tokori Boma of Lasu Payam, Yei River County, last Sunday evening.
According to Khamis James Yatta, a community leader in Tokori Boma, dozens of armed assailants carried out the attack in a residential area. He stated that two of the victims were lactating mothers, while the third was a young woman.
Yatta condemned the incident, describing it as a barbaric act, and called on authorities to urgently investigate and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
“Four youth were abducted and three women were gang raped, including two lactating mothers and another young lady. This is a barbaric act that has happened in our village. We strongly condemn it and call on authorities to investigate and hold the perpetrators accountable,” he said.
He added that the attackers had earlier raided Delego Market before carrying out the assault, leaving the local farming community in fear.
Modi Arkangelo, head of the Yei Civil Society Forum, also condemned the attack, describing it as a serious violation of human rights. He urged leaders of armed groups to ensure the protection of civilians and their property.
“What happened in Tokori Boma is a grave human rights violation at a time when communities are striving for peace. The continued use of sexual violence against women is unacceptable and must stop,” Arkangelo said.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Machar, Director for Civil-Military Relations in the greater Yei region under the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), condemned the incident and attributed the attack to armed opposition groups.
“We urge all parties, especially those in the opposition, to refrain from committing atrocities against civilians. We strongly condemn acts such as abduction and sexual violence,” Machar said.
Access Radio could not independently verify the claims from the spokesmen of the opposition groups.
The incident comes just weeks after residents of Tokori Boma held a peace dialogue aimed at promoting reconciliation, unity, cultural preservation, and socio-economic development within the community.
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