South Sudan road ambush leaves 11 passengers missing

At least 11 people remain missing following an armed ambush and abduction of passengers on the road between Yambio and Juba in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria State. The incident occurred over the weekend in Mundri East County, specifically between Lui and Lanyi Dawa.

Local officials report that approximately 32 people were initially abducted. While 27 passengers have been released and taken to Juba, several individuals remain unaccounted for. Those who escaped reported being beaten, tortured, and experiencing hunger. Some women also reported being raped during their captivity.

During the attack, three vehicles—including two Land Cruisers and a tipper truck—were burnt. Authorities stated that the abductees were forced to carry food and alcohol into the bush, and women were reportedly forced to prepare food while caring for their children.

In response, security forces have deployed joint patrols along the Mundri West-Mundri East road to protect travelers. While police investigations are underway and the identities of the alleged abductors are reportedly known, no arrests have been made as of Monday. Officials noted that limited personnel make it difficult to provide full coverage of the entire route.