Author|Ginaba Lino|CRN
Two children were shot and injured in Ombasi village early Sunday morning in what authorities describe as a mistaken crossfire incident involving soldiers on patrol.
The shooting, which occurred around 5:00 a.m., has sparked concern among residents and drawn strong reactions from community leaders, including Bishop Alex Lodiong Sakor of the Catholic Diocese of Yei.
Speaking after visiting the scene on Monday, Bishop Alex confirmed that both children have been evacuated to Yei Civil Hospital for treatment.
“We went to Ombasi after receiving reports that two children had been shot and left without medical care, “the bishop told Radio Easter and the Commissioner’s Press Office. “We were able to bring them to Yei for treatment, and they are now receiving medical attention.”
According to military commanders stationed in the area, the soldiers were on routine patrol when someone allegedly fired at them. In response, the troops returned fire—during which the children, who were reportedly fleeing in panic, were struck by stray bullets.
“The army said the children were not targeted. They were aiming at the alleged shooter, and unfortunately, the children were caught in the crossfire,” Bishop Alex said.
However, eyewitness accounts challenge the military’s version. Some local residents claim that no one fired at the soldiers and that the family was simply running in fear after seeing the patrol.
“The children were running for their lives when they were shot,” one village resident told the press. “The accused man didn’t have a weapon.”
In a further development, a local catechist who tried to seek help for the wounded children was reportedly arrested by the soldiers. As of Tuesday, he remained in detention.
Bishop Alex stated that the army had promised to release him soon but criticized the arrest as unjust and counterproductive.
“It’s very unfortunate for small children to be caught in such a situation. They are already traumatized,” the bishop said. “Civilians must be protected. If they are not safe, who will protect them?”
He added that military officials acknowledged the shooting was unintentional and offered an apology to church and local leaders.
“We hope the apology is sincere and that such an incident will never happen again,” Bishop Alex said.
The soldiers involved reportedly belong to a newly deployed unit still familiarizing themselves with the area, a factor contributing to the rising tension in the region.
Bishop Alex urged the government and security forces to enhance training, improve communication, and ensure accountability for actions that endanger civilians.
“The people of Ombasi deserve peace and protection,” he said. “We pray for calm, for the full recovery of the children, and for greater efforts to safeguard the lives of non-combatants.”
As investigations into the incident continue, religious and community leaders are calling for transparent reporting and release of the detained catechist.