Six Christian ministry workers released after abduction in South Sudan

Six South Sudanese staff members of the ministry Young Life were released on October 1, five days after being abducted by an unidentified armed group. The workers were traveling from Kajo Keji to Maridi on the Juba-Yambio Road on September 26 when their vehicle was ambushed and set on fire. According to the ministry’s country director, Pastor David Nyoma John, the captives were held in the bush, where they were subjected to physical beatings, forced labor, and a lack of basic necessities like food and water.

The victims, identified as Thomas Oliver, Japheth Elisama, John Simon, Justin Wilson, James Banyi, and Ezibon Yoanna, had their personal belongings, including Bibles and theological certificates, confiscated during the incident. While the motive for the kidnapping remains unconfirmed, ministry leadership suggested it may have been a targeted act against their religious work. Catholic Bishop Eduardo Hiinoro Kussala of the Tombura-Yambio Diocese condemned the attack, urging armed groups to cease targeting civilians. The workers are currently receiving medical and psychosocial support to address the trauma sustained during their captivity.