South Sudan, September 25, 2024 — The Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) expresses deep concern regarding the human rights violations that occurred on September 24, 2024, when armed groups ambushed a Pepto bus on the Juba-Nimule Road. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals and left several passengers fleeing into the surrounding forest for safety.
The attack, which took place approximately 80 kilometers from Juba, highlights the severe security challenges facing civilians in the region. DNHR condemns the actions of the armed groups involved and calls for accountability and protection for all individuals traveling on public transport routes in South Sudan.
The names of the travelers who were attacked on Nimule Road this morning. It appears that the bus usually departs at 6:00 AM.

The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, attributed the attack to the National Salvation Front (NAS), a rebel group led by former deputy chief of staff Gen. Thomas Cirilo Swaka. Gen. Koang noted that the NAS operates in areas south of Juba and throughout Central Equatoria state.
Last Update: September 25, 2024
According to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), the National Salvation Front (NAS), led by Gen. Thomas Cirilo Swaka, is responsible for the ambush on the Juba-Nimule Road. SSPDF spokesperson Gen. Lul Ruai Koang confirmed that the attack occurred approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) from the capital, Juba.
Gen. Koang stated that the NAS operates in areas south of Juba and throughout Central Equatoria state, indicating ongoing security concerns in the region related to this rebel group’s activities. The situation highlights the persistent instability affecting public safety along key transport routes in South Sudan.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region and raises serious concerns about the safety of public transport routes between South Sudan and Uganda. As investigations continue, further information regarding the victims and the circumstances surrounding the attack is expected to emerge.
As investigations proceed, the Darfur Network for Human Rights DNHR emphasizes the importance of ensuring justice for the victims and their families, as well as the need for enhanced security measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The ongoing violence poses significant threats to human rights and the safety of civilians, necessitating urgent attention from both national and international stakeholders.