Five Killed in South Sudan Highway Attacks

Charlton Doki, VOA News
23 April 2013 (8:46PM)

JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN — South Sudanese security forces have been deployed on highways leading into and out of the capital, Juba, after five people were killed in two separate attacks at the weekend.

“The army is taking precautions and measures to make sure that the roads are safe. We will be patrolling the roads," South Sudanese army spokesman Philip Aguer said.

Four people -- two Ugandans, an Ethiopian and a Somali -- were attacked and killed in their vehicle on the Juba-Nimule road, near Nesitu, Aguer said.

"Six hours before that incident, one person was also singled out and killed along the Juba-Torit road," he added.

Both attacks occurred on Sunday.

The attackers stole cash, cell phones and other valuables, police spokesman James Monday Enocka told reporters.

Enocka advised motorists and other road users, including UN agencies and international organizations, to use escorts provided by security agencies to avoid falling victim to an attack.

No one has been arrested in connection with the attacks at the weekend.