The Catholic Bishop of Yei Diocese has shared harrowing details of the heavy fighting that erupted in Lasu Payam, Yei River County early on Saturday, leaving civilians in distress and children seeking refuge in the surrounding bushes.
Bishop Alex Lodiong revealed that the gunfire started around 4:30 am, startling residents as government forces and armed opposition groups clashed in a terrifying confrontation.
The attack, reportedly carried out by fighters from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) and the National Salvation Front (NAS), targeted and seized two South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) outposts in Lasu and Libogo.
During a Sunday mass, Bishop Lodiong recounted the chaos as men, women, and children fled in panic, some seeking safety in the church while others hid in the bushes.
The bishop described the sound of gunfire lasting for over four hours, as civilians remained hidden in fear. Eventually, SSPDF soldiers entered the church, causing further alarm before assuring the frightened civilians of their safety.
While no civilian casualties were reported, families discovered that some children were missing after emerging from hiding.
Bishop Lodiong condemned the violence, emphasizing the unnecessary suffering caused to innocent individuals, particularly women and children. He urged both armed groups to choose dialogue over violence.
Highlighting the destructive nature of war, the bishop called on all parties to value civilian lives, property, and pursue peaceful solutions to their differences.
He appealed to the armed factions to renounce violence and engage in meaningful dialogue, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing peace over conflict.
