By Otto Abut
Tension has escalated sharply in Eastern Equatoria State capital after armed elements believed to be from the SPLM-IO launched coordinated attacks in Torit and other areas early Tuesday morning.
According to an official statement released by Governor Louis Lobong Lojore, the assaults began at around 5:00 AM, when SPLM-IO forces reportedly raided the Torit Military Hospital.
“Simultaneously, another armed group advanced from Enyif, opening fire on the official vehicle of the Torit County Commissioner. The attack killed a Police Captain who was serving as the Deputy Inspector of Police for Torit County,” the Governor explained
Governor Louis Lobong linked the incidents to what he described as a growing pattern of hostility in the state. On November 17th, 2025, a passenger vehicle traveling from Kapoeta to Napotpot was ambushed, leaving one civilian injured.
He further cited multiple road ambushes on the Kapoeta–Torit, Torit–Magwi, and Torit–Juba routes, as well as earlier attacks, including a deadly raid on an SSPDF outpost in Enyif in May 2025 and a September 25th, 2025, attack on the Kapoeta National Security Office
The Governor said the latest actions “amount to a declaration of war against the Government and the peace-loving people of Eastern Equatoria State.”
The state government has condemned the attacks “in the strongest terms,” calling them grave provocations that undermine ongoing efforts to uphold the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
The governor urged citizens to remain alert and avoid harboring individuals involved in violence. He also directed the SSPDF and other organized forces to take necessary measures to protect civilians, secure property, and maintain state sovereignty.
Despite the escalation, Governor Lobong reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting civilians and engaging peacefully with groups willing to pursue dialogue.
“The Government of Eastern Equatoria State remains committed to restoring stability and ensuring that peace prevails across the state,” he said.