05/01/2026
Governor Lobong Visits Ngauro Following Deadly Christmas Violence at Lopua Mining Site, Orders Security Measures and Calls for Peace
Ngauro Payam, Budi County – Eastern Equatoria State, January 4, 2026
The Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, H.E. Gen. Louis Lobong Lojore, has conducted an official visit to Ngauro Payam to assess the security situation following deadly violent incidents that occurred between December 24 and 26, 2025, during the Christmas period at the Lopua local mining site
During the visit, Governor Lobong strongly condemned the violence, describing it as barbaric, criminal, and wholly unacceptable. He called for the immediate restoration of peace, normalcy, and community life in Ngauro. The Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and assured the affected communities that the state government remains fully committed to pursuing the perpetrators and ensuring they are brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The Governor further appealed to residents, traders, and business operators who fled the area out of fear to return and resume their normal activities. He emphasized that the state government has put in place concrete security measures to guarantee the safety of civilians and revive economic activities in the area.
Responding to concerns raised by community members, Governor Lobong ordered the immediate closure of the Lopua local mining site until further notice. He clarified that the site will only be reopened upon the request of the local community and once the security situation has been fully stabilized.
The Governor directed the Commissioner of Budi County to ensure the opening and rehabilitation of a passable road to the town center in order to improve accessibility and strengthen security response. All SSPDF units and other organized security forces were instructed to implement these directives without delay, under the direct supervision of the County Commissioner.
As part of long-term peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts, Governor Lobong further instructed the Commissioners of Budi and Kapoeta South counties to initiate a peace dialogue between the Toposa and Didinga communities of Ngauro. He noted that this initiative reflects the shared commitment and desire of both communities to restore harmony, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence.
The Governor warned that should criminal elements continue to threaten public safety, the state government will not hesitate to deploy additional security forces to protect civilians and restore law and order.
Briefing the Governor, the Commissioner of Budi County, Hon. Amin, explained that the violence was triggered on the night of December 25, 2025, following the arrest and detention of a suspected criminal believed to be associated with a boda-boda group. According to the Commissioner, the suspect’s colleagues later attempted to forcibly remove him from the local detention facility. Security personnel resisted the attempt, and during efforts to disperse the group, a gunshot was fired, resulting in one fatality. The situation subsequently escalated when the group moved to the Lopua mining site and opened fire indiscriminately, killing 24 people, including women, children, and foreign traders. As SSPDF forces attempted to open a safe passage for fleeing civilians, they were ambushed, leading to the death of one SSPDF soldier.
Hon. Amin classified the incident as criminal in nature and largely influenced by alcohol abuse, while reassuring the public that calm has since been restored and that security remains under control.
Governor Lobong’s visit underscored the state government’s solidarity with the people of Ngauro during a period of profound loss. As the community mourns its dead and embarks on the path to recovery, the state leadership reaffirmed that violence will not be tolerated, justice will prevail, and peace—anchored in dialogue, accountability, and unity—remains the only sustainable path forward.
