By Elizabeth John – Torit
Police in Eastern Equatoria State have confirmed the killing of a 40-year-old humanitarian worker along the Torit–Longiro road, in what authorities describe as a tragic attack by unidentified assailants.
Eastern Equatoria State Police Spokesperson Lt. Col. Justin Kleopas Takuru told Radio Emmanuel 89 FM that the deceased, identified as Mark Loboi, was a social worker with the Carter Center. He was travelling from Torit to Longiro on June 3 when he was reportedly ambushed and shot dead.
According to Takuru, the incident was reported to police by one of the victim’s colleagues, prompting authorities to open a criminal case and launch investigations. He said the Acting Police Commissioner and the Commissioner of Torit County later visited the scene to verify the incident and oversee preliminary inquiries.
“On June 3 at around 2 p.m., we received a report from one of the social workers, Lino Lomo Matheo of Carter Center, informing us that one of their colleagues had been killed along the Torit–Logire road while travelling to Logire. We immediately opened a case and informed the relevant authorities. The Acting Police Commissioner communicated with the Commissioner of Torit County, and a team was dispatched to the scene where the body of Mark Loboi, a 40-year-old man, was recovered.”
Police say investigations remain ongoing, with local youth in Longiro assisting authorities by tracking footprints believed to belong to the perpetrators.
Preliminary findings indicate that residents working in nearby farms reported seeing a group of approximately seven unidentified individuals crossing the road around the time of the attack.
“According to information gathered during the investigation, the chief of Longiro reported that people working in farms near the area saw about seven individuals crossing the road. Youth from the area have been following the footprints believed to be connected to the incident. We have not yet received a final report from them as they are still tracking the route taken by the suspects. For now, investigations are continuing.”
Takuru strongly condemned the killing and called on communities to reject violence and support humanitarian workers who dedicate their efforts to improving the lives of vulnerable populations.
He noted that Loboi was travelling to carry out activities related to Guinea Worm eradication and community awareness programs when the attack occurred.
“I would like to tell our people that such negative activities are not acceptable. It is wrong to kill someone who has come to serve the community. The deceased was working to support our people through Guinea Worm eradication activities and community awareness. He was not coming to do any harm. We should support those who come to provide services to our communities and work together to ensure their safety.”
Authorities say efforts are underway to identify, locate, and apprehend those responsible for the killing.
The police spokesperson made the remarks during an interview with Radio Emmanuel 89 FM on Thursday.