South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"

By Jenifer James
The Juba County Commissioner, Emmanuel Tete Ezbon, has reassured residents of Pageri Boma, Lobonok payam of security following the recent displacement caused by random gunfire from soldiers.
The unrest began after a soldier was killed by an unknown assailant, triggering indiscriminate gunfire from fellow soldiers.
The shooting caused widespread panic, with over 800 women and children fleeing to Lobonok Church Center for safety, many homes were burned in the chaos, adding to the suffering of displaced families.
“Currently, the security situation is stable, so there is a need for people to go back to Pageri Boma and continue their usual activities,” said Ezbon in a statement on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Tombur Boma in Lobonok Payam, Tartiso Ladu, said that many residents remain reluctant to return, highlighting the strained relationship between the community and the military.
“The security situation in the Boma is unstable, and the relationship with the army is tense. The community refuses to return,” said Ladu.
However, the Chairperson of Lobonok Youth Association, Nelson Matayo Kenyi disclosed that the violence intensified following a dispute between the youth and soldiers.
Kenyi claimed that the military had allegedly prohibited young people from organizing a social event, leading to clashes. The dispute escalated, culminating in gunfire and mass displacement.
Local authorities are working with security forces to restore trust and ensure safety for the returning residents.
Humanitarian organizations have also been called upon to assist those affected, particularly women and children who have been left without shelter or basic supplies.