Photo Credit| South Sudan Air TV

The Governor of Jonglei State, Riek Gai Kok, has strongly condemned the ambush in Duk County that left at least 17 people dead and nine others injured, after a humanitarian convoy came under attack on Monday between Duk Payuel and Pajut.

The Governor made the remarks during a visit to the families of the victims, where he also offered condolences and called for calm in the affected communities.

The convoy was reportedly transporting humanitarian assistance when it was attacked in what authorities described as a brutal assault that has heightened tensions in the area.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor during the visit, State Minister of Education Ador Thon said the attack had caused widespread devastation and grief among residents.

“This incident has really damaged the area and has caused a lot of damage within our community. We are here with the governor to pay condolences to the families and to entire people of Duke. The Governor at the same time reaffirmed the commitment for peace in Jonglei State,” Thon said.

“We are here to come and say that the families of the grief will remain in peace and we are here to affirm our commitment for us to go and seek our support from our organized forces, leaving yet all the communities who are in Payuel, they have to remain in peace and we appeal to our organized forces to maintain peace and security in the area.”

Authorities have urged residents of Duk Payuel and surrounding areas, including Pajut, to remain calm as security forces continue investigations and efforts to restore stability in the region.