Authorities in Eastern Equatoria State are investigating the killing of a businessman along Kikilai-Lotome road over the weekend.
Unknown gunmen shot dead an a-25-year-old businessman, identified as Malith Makuac between Chukudum and Ikwoto on Sunday at 5PM.
According to the State Police Commissioner, the deceased is operating his business in Ikwoto County and Budi County.
Major General James Monday Enoka said the deceased was shot in a place called Matelele after his vehicle carrying goods broke down. He was reportedly looking for a lift from other vehicles.
“His car developed a mechanical problem, and he came to took for another car that can help pull his car. But he was shot on the way by criminals who have not yet been identified,” Maj. Gen. Enoka confirmed.
He added that the body of the businessman has been taken to Ikotos for burial.
“Investigations are ongoing…,” Maj. Gen. Enoka stated.
He said cases of road robberies and killings have increased along the highways in the areas of greater Kapoeta.
Enoka promised that the government will soon start deploying forces in the hotspots.
“…we are going to identify police stations to conduct patrols in those areas to protect people and their goods.”
On Monday [yesterday], a humanitarian vehicle belonging to the Root of Generation Organization was looted by two gunmen along the Kapoeta-Camp 15 highway.
The incident happened in the Lowareng area as the aid workers were heading to Kimatong Payam to distribute the radio sets to the local community.
The robbers put the aid workers at gunpoint and took 5 mobile phones, 140,000 South Sudanese Pounds, 4 radio sets, 2 chairs, 1 camera, and their personal belongings.
Juma Tikol, Chairperson of Greater Kapoeta Civil Society condemned the killing and looting of civilians along the highways.
He cautioned armed youths against banditry.
“To the youths in greater Kapoeta, road robbery is not the way for survival,” Mr. Tikol said.
He appealed to the communities to cooperate with the government in identifying criminals and apprehending those behind banditry.