(Tambura) – The only health facility in Matakurungu, located in South Sudan’s Tambura County, Western Equatoria State, has been forced to shut down after unidentified armed men looted it earlier last week, leaving thousands of residents without access to essential medical services.
The incident occurred at approximately 9 p.m. on a Tuesday night, when a group of masked assailants stormed the Matakurungu Primary Health Care Unit. According to local authorities, the gunmen made off with medical supplies, mattresses, bed covers, plastic chairs, and cleaning materials.
Acting County Police Inspector First Lieutenant John Kinolo Baptist confirmed the looting in an interview with Radio Tamazuj. He said the attackers also robbed a local elderly woman of her money and personal belongings before fleeing. Despite the violent nature of the incident, no injuries or deaths were reported.
“The Matakurungu health centre was looted on Tuesday night. The attackers took away medicines, chairs, and other essential items,” Kinolo said. “Fortunately, no one was injured or killed during the incident.”
He also stated that the robbers, whose faces were covered, left the area quickly after completing the raid. So far, no suspects have been identified, though police say an investigation is ongoing.
The closure of the health facility has sparked concern among community members and officials alike. The Matakurungu unit is the only functioning healthcare provider in the immediate area, and its shutdown has left many vulnerable residents without access to treatment or medication.
Justin Clement Kuku, a nutrition officer with the county health department, confirmed that local officials had visited the site following the incident.
“The health facility is now closed because there is fear, yet it is the only one in the area,” Kuku said.
Residents in the county are now appealing for urgent intervention by state and national authorities to restore security in the area and support the reopening of the health centre.
Community leaders argue that continued closure will result in a full blown health crisis, particularly for pregnant women, children,and the elderly, who rely heavily on the facility for regular medical care.
In a country where many rural communities face already limited access to healthcare, the looting of a health facility represents a serious setback.
According to parallel market exchange rates, the stolen supplies and items, though modest by international standards, likely amount to losses valued in the millions of South Sudanese Pounds.
