11/06/2026
Security Forces Recover Body of Kapoeta East Commissioner After Uniformed Gunmen Launch Deadly Attack.
KESSENGOR — The body of the Kapoeta East County Commissioner has been recovered following a deadly ambush in the Kessengor area, local authorities confirmed.
Jacob Werchum, the Minister of Information for the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), announced that security forces recovered the remains during ongoing search operations. The discovery followed an intense confrontation earlier in the day involving heavily armed youth, some wearing uniforms, and security personnel.
"This morning there was an attack in Kessengor," Werchum stated. "Heavily armed youth, some in uniform, attacked the area... The commissioner was killed. I am told a body was found and it might be him."
According to Minister Werchum, the commissioner was caught in the crossfire during what officials describe as a targeted ambush. Search and security operations remain active in the region, including around the local Payam airport.
State Government Condemns "Waylaid" Attack
In a separate statement, the Eastern Equatoria State government officially confirmed the assassination, strongly condemning the violence. State authorities alleged that the commissioner was waylaid by attackers while traveling to the Kessengor area.
Underlying Border Dispute
The fatal attack occurs against a backdrop of escalating regional friction. Days prior to the incident, the governments of Eastern Equatoria State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area had exchanged sharp accusations regarding a disputed visit by Pibor leaders to a border zone. Both administrative sides continue to assert jurisdiction over the contested location.