Couple killed in Tombura as violence threatens relative peace
By Emmanuel Mandella
Local authorities have confirmed the fatal shooting of Edward Gbondo from Azande clan, and his wife Adali Elizabeth, a Balanda, at their home in Bavuru Boma in Tombura County of Western Equatoria State.
The grisly attack occurred around 11 p.m. Wednesday night when unidentified gunmen stormed the residence in the Nagito (Alessio) area, approximately five kilometers from Tombura main town.
An eyewitness, who spoke to the media on anonymously, urgently appealed to both state and national governments to ensure security in the area.
“I am appealing to both the state and national governments to come to Tombura, investigate the root causes of these crimes, and find lasting solutions. People are suffering, and innocent civilians are being killed.”
Earlier incidents in Tombura County over the past two months provide a disturbing picture. Road ambushes and targeting killing continues to threaten peace and security in the region. The incidents have led to displacements of multiple civilians from Nagero, Tombura, and Boo, .
However, leaders across Western Equatoria implored the incoming governor to address the long-standing conflict between the Azande and Balanda communities, calling for reconciliation and restoration of peace in the state.
These recurring episodes of violence have destabilized the region further, fueling fear, displacements, and mistrust among residents.
For his part the State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong urged residents to assist law enforcement by locating those criminals and to report them to authority for accountability.
“A husband and wife were killed by unknown gunmen who later escaped. We continue to urge communities to report criminals and suspected individuals to the authorities to help prevent such crimes.”
This tragedy punctuates a disturbing pattern: a lack of security, ongoing ethnic tension, and a community under siege. The intercommunal tension continues to be a central fault line, with leadership and reconciliation efforts struggling to keep hold.
