VP Igga condemns mining site attack near Juba, promises justice

2026-03-30 - 13:35

Vice President James Wani Igga has strongly condemned the attack at a mining site near Juba over the weekend that killed scores of people and left dozens injured. His remarks, the first official comment from the national government, come after social media footage circulated showing bodies covered with clothing and laid on plastic sheets, while others were wrapped in bedsheets, as distressed onlookers gathered at the scene. According to local sources in Wundruba Administrative Payam, the attack occurred at a mining site in Kare-Nare area, also known as Khor-Kaltan in Kulipapa Boma. In a statement issued this afternoon, Vice President Igga described the attack as a “heinous massacre of innocent civilians.” He said unverified assessments indicate that at least 73 local miners were killed and 25 others seriously wounded in the attack. Local authorities in Wundruba Administrative Payam claim the assault was carried out by SPLA-IO forces, though the group has not claimed responsibility. Vice President Igga warned that the number of casualties could rise as the search for the missing continues. He condemned the killings as not only a violation of the right to life but also a direct assault on peace and stability. “On behalf of the Government of South Sudan and on my own behalf, I condemn this cowardly and senseless act of violence in the strongest possible terms. Such brutality is not only a violation of the right to life but a direct assault on the peace and stability we are striving to build for our nation,” he lamented. Vice President Igga ordered the evacuation and medical treatment of the 25 injured survivors. He also directed the establishment of a formal inquiry to determine the identity and motives of the assailants. He called for the deployment of additional forces to reinforce the protection of mining sites and rural trade hubs and ensure the safety of citizens. He extended condolences to the families of the victims and pledged that the government will not rest until justice is served and the security of Central Equatoria is guaranteed. The Vice President also urged all citizens to remain calm but vigilant and to cooperate with security forces by providing any information that may lead to the arrest of those responsible for the attack.