The Security Committee of Central Equatoria State in South Sudan issued an official statement condemning the abduction of ten South Sudanese nationals in the Lasso area of Yei River County.
But Uganda is also reporting 20 of its citizens being kidnapped in South Sudan.
Authorities in Juba are blaming cases on enforced disappearance and killings on the armed groups believed to be loyal to rebel General Thomas Cirillo.
That came to light during a press conference held by the state’s Deputy Governor, Paulino Lukudu Obedi, who warned of deteriorating security in the region, describing the attack as a “criminal act threatening peace efforts.”
He confirmed that authorities are working to enhance security measures to pursue those responsible.
The state’s Minister of Local Government, Leon Abe Brown, reported that the abductees included eight men and two women, indicating that the attack is believed to have been carried out by the “National Salvation Front forces,” a group linked to Cirillo.
He described the incident as a “grave violation of international humanitarian law,” calling for the immediate release of the victims.
Brown also revealed other attacks in the region, including the burning of two vehicles in Morobo County, accusing the same group of being behind these acts.
He affirmed that the government would intensify security operations to ensure civilian protection.
The Security Committee reaffirmed its commitment to supporting stability and strengthening cooperation among security agencies, urging residents to provide any information that could help apprehend the perpetrators.
In another development, Uganda has intensified security measures in the border region of Koboko with South Sudan following escalating tensions between government forces in Juba and armed opposition groups which has led to increased violence and new waves of displacement across the border
Emmy Metal the commissioner of Koboko District confirmed that authorities have deported several individuals lacking official identification documents either to refugee camps or their countries of origin as part of efforts to contain the deteriorating security situation
According to official reports the area has witnessed a series of security incidents including kidnappings robberies and killings believed to be carried out by armed groups from South Sudan.
These attacks have so far resulted in the deaths of two Ugandan citizens while others remain missing in addition to at least 20 recorded cases of citizens being kidnapped with armed groups demanding ransom payments
Among the notable incidents unidentified gunmen abducted Ugandan citizen Hamis Logi 39 years old from Muguajai village demanding a ransom of 5 million Ugandan shillings approximately USD 1300 dollars for his release
Meanwhile Uganda is receiving a new wave of refugees fleeing clashes in South Sudan with over 80 refugees mostly women and children recorded arriving in Ugandan border areas in recent days
The Ugandan government announced plans to reinforce security presence along the border and pursue armed elements conducting cross border operations while reaffirming its commitment to protecting civilians and their property