(Tonj) – A member of the Seventh day Adventist Church was shot and killed and another seriously injured, after an ambush by unidentified gunmen on Sunday evening in Warrap State’s Tonj North County, church officials confirmed.
The victims were Evangelist James Mangong Akol, who died at the scene, and Pastor Joseph Ayii Agieu, who sustained gunshot wounds and is now receiving medical treatment at Wau Teaching Hospital. Pastor William Wol Adewun Paduol, the Church’s Director of Information and Communication in Greater Bahr El Ghazal, confirmed the details of the attack.
The incident happened between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on the outskirts of Warrap Town. Pastor Joseph, who leads the Warrap West District, and Evangelist James were returning home on a motorbike after conducting a wedding ceremony at Warrap Central Church when they were ambushed by unknown armed individuals.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but it comes amid growing concerns over rising attacks on religious groups in the area. In recent months, Warrap State has recorded several incidents where churches were burned or attacked by unidentified groups.
Pastor Wol called on state authorities to act swiftly to protect religious institutions and their followers. He urged the government to ensure the right to worship freely and safeguard church members. “We urge the government to defend the right to freedom of worship and safeguard the lives of innocent civilians, especially church members,” he said.
The incident has drawn strong condemnation from civil society. Ter Manyang Gatwech, Executive Director of the Juba based advocacy group, the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), described the attack as a “heinous act” that not only targets individuals but also undermines peace and religious freedom.
“The CPA extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and the broader Christian community. We call for swift investigations and the apprehension of those responsible for this cowardly act,” Manyang stated.
He noted the important role of religious leaders in peacebuilding and reconciliation across South Sudan, especially in areas affected by conflict. “If those who preach peace are not safe, it sends a dangerous message to all peacebuilders across the country,” he warned.
Manyang called on the Warrap State government to increase security for religious communities and citizens in vulnerable areas. He also urged state authorities to uphold the peacebuilding commitments made during the 8th Governors’ Forum, particularly those focused on local-level security efforts.
At the time of publication, repeated attempts to contact Warrap State officials for comment were unsuccessful.
