By Deng Ghai Deng
A senior member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) Party, in Jonglei state was on Monday evening attacked and robbed by armed assailants.
Mr. Tuong Majok Deng, is the deputy chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) in Jonglei State. He is also Fangak Constituency Number 2, representative in Jonglei State Transitional Legislative Assembly (JSTLA).
Deng, was reportedly on the fateful day, targeted on his way to his residence at Freedom Hotel, in Bor town. The attackers made off with cash and personal mobile phones.
According to Deng, the robbery took place roughly 60 meters from the hotel gate. The assailants, described as a gang of armed youths carrying traditional weapons, ambushed him from behind.
One of the assailant struck Deng on the left shoulder with a machete, leading to a physical altercation and Deng was subsequently overpowered and thrown to the ground.
During the struggle, one attacker restrained Deng while another searched him, ultimately making off with two of Deng’s phones—a smartphone and a basic model—as well as 30,000 South Sudan Pounds (SSP) (approximately 7 US dollars).
Even if he has not been injured, Deng expressed concern over the safety of constitutional officials, citing the lack of mobility and security arrangements for government representatives in the state.
“The lives of constitutional post holders are in danger due to the absence of vehicles and guards,” Deng said.
“Many of us walk to work and are vulnerable to such attacks. The government should enhance security measures or provide necessary resources to prevent these incidents.”
Deng also raised concerns about the presence of a man in a military uniform among the robbers, questioning whether the individual was an actual soldier or if the uniform was illicitly obtained.
“Among those who confronted me, one was in a military uniform,” Deng noted.
“I am unsure if he was a legitimate army personnel or if the uniform was acquired through other means. This situation is overwhelming.”
The incident underlines broader issues of security and resource allocation in Jonglei State.
With a basic gross salary for a member of parliament in the state being 300,000 SSP—less than 100 US dollars—the financial constraints faced by officials further exacerbate their vulnerability.
Local authorities have yet to comment on the robbery or the broader implications for the security of public officials in Jonglei.