By Kei Emmanuel Duku
Central Equatoria State has directed security forces to intensify arrest of gang members within Juba city as well as in the counties, for investigations and to face justice.
The state authority reached the resolution during a weekly cabinet meeting held on Friday at the State Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by State Governor Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, who also heads the state’s security committee.
The directive follows a surge in crimes such as rape, gang attacks, robbery within Juba, abduction of civilians, road ambushes in Yei and Morobo counties.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Acting Minister of Information and Communication, Hon. Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado stated that the State Police Commissioner had briefed the committee on the overall security situation. He said that, though the situation remains relatively calm, isolated incidents factor in Yei and Morobo counties.
During deliberations, the security committee issued directives for a continued crackdown on gang groups in Juba. The Head of Legal Administration and Public Prosecution has been tasked with expediting the screening and investigation of arrested individuals to differentiate the innocent from the guilty.
The Acting Minister of Information also reported abduction of a paramount chief and two humanitarian workers. He said armed militants were responsible for the incident along the Yei-Tore Road, in Lasu Payam, Yei River County.
The abductees were released days later after a ransom was paid for the two aid workers, though the traditional chief’s status was not specified regarding ransom.
Lo-Lado further stated that apart from the abduction in Yei River County, three civilians were killed and a woman was sexually assaulted by unknown assailants in Rokon, Juba County.
“We have also recorded cases of suicide and a disturbing rise in the abuse of women,” Hon. Aligo added.
The Minister said that after briefing Governor Mujung, the security committee resolved to direct all security organs in the state to remain vigilant and respond swiftly to any threats.
Despite the increasing crime rates, the State Government reiterated and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all citizens.