In a disturbing escalation of insecurity in South Sudan, two armed men stormed Tambura Hospital on Thursday morning, forcing the only major health facility in the area to close temporarily.
The attackers, reportedly dressed in police uniforms with their faces covered, entered the hospital compound between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m., firing warning shots and stealing two motorbikes, including one that belonged to a patient.
According to Dr. Gabriel Benai Juma, the county’s medical director, the closure was necessary to safeguard patients and health staff while assessing the ongoing security risks. “We have reported previous threats, but the response has been slow. Our workers no longer feel safe,” Dr. Benai said in a statement.
Midwife Anigia Angelina, who witnessed the terrifying incident, said both patients and staff were traumatized. “People started running in all directions. It was chaos. We need urgent government protection,” she stressed.
Security Response and Concerns Over Safety
Philip Madut Tong, the County Police Commissioner, confirmed the incident and said an investigation is underway. He urged the public to be vigilant and to report anyone wearing unauthorized uniforms. “We’re tracking the suspects and calling on residents to cooperate with law enforcement,” he said.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear. However, it comes just days after a Catholic Church official was killed in Tambura, raising alarm over growing insecurity in Western Equatoria.
A Call for Action to Protect Healthcare Facilities
Health workers across South Sudan are increasingly vulnerable amid ongoing instability.
The Tambura Hospital attack underscores the urgent need for better protection and faster government response. If left unaddressed, such incidents risk undermining public health services in remote and conflict-prone areas.
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Follow our blog for the latest updates on security in South Sudan, healthcare news in Western Equatoria, and efforts to restore peace in Tambura County.
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