By Joseph Manyang
A long-serving Radio 98 FM journalist, Yang Ater Yang, was on Sunday attacked and robbed by armed men posing as security officers in the Mabor Yim residential area of Rumbek Town.
Speaking to Radio Good News, Yang said he was approached by two men who claimed to be security personnel conducting routine checks for “unwanted materials.” Trusting their identity, he allowed them to come closer.
The situation quickly turned violent. One of the suspects struck him while the other searched his pockets. After finding nothing of value, the attackers seized his phone and fled the scene.
The Lakes State Coordinator for the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Daniel Laat Kon, condemned the assault, describing it as a dangerous trend that threatens press freedom and public safety.
Laat said the attack was a disturbing violation of journalists’ rights and a serious threat to community security. He urged government security agencies to launch an immediate investigation and take firm action to dismantle criminal groups impersonating security officers.
As of press time, there had been no official response from state authorities. The absence of a government statement raises further questions about how the attackers were able to operate under the guise of security personnel and target a member of the press.
Several attempts to reach state officials for comment were unsuccessful.