By James Innocent
The Commissioner of Yei River County, Samuel Henry Malimbo, and the Commissioner of Lainya County, Huda Michael Laila, joined hundreds of mourners during the funeral service of the late South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) Captain Isaac Logu Gaitano.
The late was killed in an ambush along the Yei–Kaya Road on 26 April 2026 while travelling to Yei.
The funeral brought together family members, government officials, security personnel, religious leaders, friends, and members of the public to pay their final respects to the late army officer.
Addressing mourners, Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo described the late Captain Logu Gaitano as a disciplined and dedicated officer with whom he had previously served in Yei and Morobo. He said the late officer was known for his professionalism, commitment, and intelligence throughout his military service.
Malimbo also said he directed that the body of the late captain be transported without delay following the incident, citing their long-standing professional relationship and the need to support the bereaved family during the difficult period.
He further described Captain Logu Gaitano as a patriot who contributed to South Sudan’s liberation struggle and remained committed to promoting unity within both his family and the wider community.
Commissioner Huda Michael Laila expressed condolences to the bereaved family and encouraged them to remain strong despite their loss. She said the late officer’s service and sacrifice for the country would be remembered.
She also commended Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo and the leadership of Yei River County for supporting the family throughout the mourning period, describing the gesture as a demonstration of solidarity and cooperation between neighbouring counties.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the father of the late Captain Isaac Logu Gaitano said the loss had left him deeply grief-stricken and without words to fully express his sorrow.
He described his son as a pillar of strength within the family and thanked the commissioner of Yei River County and the county leadership for assisting with the transportation of the body for burial.
According to the family’s biography, Captain Isaac Logu Gaitano was born on 1 January 1969 and died on 26 April 2026 at the age of 57.
The family said he served in the Sudan People’s Liberation Army/Movement (SPLA/M) before continuing his service in the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), where he attained the rank of captain and later served as Head of Military Intelligence in Kaya and Morobo County.
According to the family, Captain Logu Gaitano was travelling from Kaya to Yei to accompany the body of his deceased brother for burial when the vehicle carrying them came under ambush on the outskirts of Morobo County. Four people, including Captain Logu Gaitano, were killed in the attack.