An Ethiopian businessman has been shot dead in an ambush along the Juba–Bor road, with the driver of the vehicle escaping unharmed and later reaching a safer location with the victim’s body.
The incident occurred as the two men travelled from Juba towards Bor carrying goods belonging to the Ethiopian trader, according to the driver, Maketh Deng.
Speaking to The Nile Witness on Sunday, Deng said unidentified gunmen emerged near Mangala and attempted to block the vehicle.
“The unknown gunmen were standing along the road and trying to stop me, but I didn’t stop immediately. They opened fire and killed the Ethiopian,” Deng said.
He stated that the attackers crossed the road in an attempt to force the vehicle to stop, but he continued driving after the shooting and managed to reach a safer location.
Deng noted that the gunmen had earlier attacked a Rakasha carrying charcoal, forcing those inside to flee.
Members of the Ethiopian community later arrived, identified the body and were expected to transport it back to Juba.
According to Deng, it’s the second time he had been caught in an ambush in the same area.
He appealed to the government to strengthen security along the Juba–Bor highway, saying continued attacks are putting passengers, drivers and traders at risk.
The latest attack adds to a series of security incidents reported along the Juba–Bor corridor this year.
In April, at least two people were killed and another injured in an ambush around Khor Makuach, where several vehicles travelling towards Bor came under gunfire and were reportedly looted.
In July, an Eco Bus travelling along the same highway was attacked near Mongiri.
The driver was shot and passengers were robbed of cash, mobile phones and other belongings.
The bus company later said the driver survived and that the passengers were safe, although three sustained minor injuries from shattered glass.
Following the July attack, Central Equatoria authorities said security forces had intensified patrols and surveillance along the highway and launched efforts to identify the attackers.
The state government had also earlier resolved to strengthen security patrols along major roads amid growing concerns over insecurity affecting travelers and trade.
The insecurity comes amid wider concerns over attacks on major roads across South Sudan.
In August, two Ethiopian UN peacekeepers were killed and seven other people injured when a UNMISS patrol travelling to Pajut in Jonglei State was ambushed by unidentified armed men.
UNMISS deployed a Quick Reaction Force and called for a prompt investigation and accountability.
Despite previous security measures, drivers and traders continue to call for stronger and sustained protection along the Juba–Bor road, particularly in areas repeatedly targeted by armed attackers.
However, when contacted by The Nile Witness, Maj. Gen. Daniel Justin, South Sudan National Police Service Spokesperson, was unavailable for comment.
