A cattle trader has been killed in an armed ambush outside Yei Town, raising fresh concerns over the safety of traders travelling along roads in Yei River County.
The attack occurred on Saturday as two cattle traders were travelling by motorcycle to Tore Payam to purchase cattle, according to the Deputy Inspector of Police in Yei River County, Zacharia Daniel.
Mr. Daniel said unknown armed men ambushed the pair on the road, opening fire on them during the attack.
“One of the traders was shot and died at the scene, while the other managed to escape unharmed,” he said.
The attackers reportedly fled with the victims’ motorcycle and an undisclosed amount of cash that was intended for purchasing cattle.
The killing has alarmed the local business community, with cattle traders expressing fears over increasing insecurity on roads leading to and from Yei. They are urging authorities to strengthen security patrols to protect traders and other road users from recurring armed attacks.
Police said an investigation has been launched to identify and arrest those responsible for the ambush.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over criminal attacks targeting travellers and traders in parts of Central Equatoria State, where armed robberies along major roads continue to disrupt livelihoods and commercial activities.
