A health worker was shot dead in an ambush on Sunday along the Lotome-Bira road in Ikotos County, Eastern Equatoria State, local officials confirmed.

The victim, Lokotel Luka, a nutrition assistant at Nakoringole Primary Health Care Unit, was returning to Bira after work when he was attacked at a notorious spot known locally as “Kampala Corner.”

Ikotos County Commissioner Timon Loboi Lolori revealed that the incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. He said he was informed that the nutritional officer was killed by unknown raiders, who were later traced to Kikilai village in neighbouring Budi County.

“Lokotel was a nutrition assistant serving at the health facility in Nakoringole payam. He was married with children. His family and colleagues are devastated,” Lolori said.

Julius Lokenyi, Ikotos County Health Director, confirmed the killing and revealed that Lokotel had narrowly escaped similar attacks in the past.

“Just a week ago, Lokotel faced a similar threat while traveling from Bira to Ikotos, and his son was injured by gunfire during that incident,” Lokenyi said.

He added that the same assailants had previously robbed Lokotel of his belongings.

Lokenyi expressed concern over the impact on health services in the area.

“This leaves a gap in our Nakoringole PHCU, where he served a large population,” he said.

“We are calling for greater protection of health workers and civilians along this road.”

Amin Ben, Commissioner of neighbouring Budi County, said he had received reports of the incident and that local authorities were taking action.

“I have directed my executive director to contact the chief of Kikilai Boma to establish the route taken by the attackers and ensure they face justice,” Ben stated.

The ambush highlights ongoing security challenges along rural roads in Eastern Equatoria, where health workers and civilians frequently face armed robberies and targeted attacks.

Local leaders have repeatedly called for increased security patrols and community engagement to protect essential service providers and restore safe travel in the region.

No group has claimed responsibility for the killing, and investigations are ongoing.