(YAMBIO) – A commercial motorcycle rider was seriously injured and robbed on Thursday morning near the Yambio Airstrip in Bazungua Payam, located roughly five kilometres from Yambio Town, the capital of Western Equatoria State.
According to State Police Commissioner Major General Phillip Madut Tong, the incident happened around 6:30 a.m. as the rider was transporting a passenger to Bazungua Payam. The passenger allegedly turned on the rider, attacking him with a panga before fleeing with the red Boxer-brand motorcycle.
“The rider was unfortunately attacked and cut with a panga by the same passenger he was giving a ride,” Gen. Madut said. “He was found later lying injured along the road in Riibodo Boma and was taken to Yambio State Hospital for treatment.”
The police have launched an investigation and are appealing to the public, especially residents in Ibba, Madebe, and surrounding communities, to report any sightings of a red Boxer motorcycle being used suspiciously. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the injured rider but confirmed his condition is being monitored.
Victor Zakapu, the youth chairperson of Bazungua Payam, condemned the incident and expressed growing concern over the increasing insecurity faced by motorcycle taxi operators. He warned that criminal elements may be targeting riders, particularly during early morning or late evening hours when visibility is low and support limited.
“The attackers are still at large,” Zakapu said. “We are urging all riders to avoid operating too early in the morning or late at night to reduce the risk of injury and theft.”
Eyewitnesses reported that the suspect posed as an ordinary customer before violently attacking the rider. He then escaped with the motorbike, leaving the victim bleeding by the roadside.
Local leaders have denounced the act, calling it a dangerous escalation in criminal behaviour against boda-boda riders, who form a key part of local transport and economic life in Yambio and across South Sudan.
Officials believe the theft was premeditated and have warned other riders to remain cautious, particularly in isolated areas.
Community support is being sought to help identify and locate the suspect. Security forces say they will intensify patrols in key areas and work with local leaders to enhance protection for commercial transport workers.
With rising unemployment and economic hardship affecting much of South Sudan, petty theft and street level crime have become a growing concern. Police have said they are monitoring trends and working to strengthen community policing in vulnerable areas.
Motorcycle taxis are a vital source of income for many young South Sudanese men. Incidents like this not only put lives at risk but threaten livelihoods and economic stability in already fragile communities.
