29/06/2026
breaking News:
Boda boda robbery claims University of Juba finalist
A final-year Medical Laboratory Sciences student at the University of Juba was shot dead after suspected robbers allegedly robbed him of his motorcycle in Thongpiny, Juba, on Monday morning. The victim, John Uchalla Ukel, had been working as a boda boda rider to support himself, pay his tuition and help his family.
According to reports, Uchalla left Ramciel Hostel on the University of Juba campus early Monday to begin work before picking up two men who requested a ride to Thongpiny. Upon reaching their destination, the men allegedly shot him in the stomach, robbed him of his motorcycle and fled the scene.
Good Samaritans rushed Uchalla to the hospital, where he later died from excessive bleeding. The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of boda boda riders in Juba, many of whom rely on the trade as their primary source of income.
“John was not just a student. He was a hardworking young man who rode a boda boda to pay his tuition, support his family and pursue a better future,” his colleague, Emmanuel Pinyi, said in a tribute. “Many innocent people continue to lose their lives, while countless others risk everything every day riding boda bodas just to survive.” He added
Police had not issued an official statement or announced any arrests by the time of publication. The incident remains under investigation.
