The alarming rise in random shootings and armed robberies on the streets of Juba has created a climate of fear and insecurity for the city’s residents.
The government must act swiftly to address this concerning trend and provide adequate protection for its citizens.
Reports of gunmen terrorizing various neighborhoods, particularly in Gumbo Sherikat, have become a daily occurrence. Innocent lives are being lost, and the sense of safety in the capital has been severely undermined. These incidents have caused widespread panic, with citizens uncertain of their security even while going about their daily activities.
Disturbingly, some of the perpetrators are believed to be members of the security forces operating in civilian attire. The recent incident where police officers opened fire on civilians in the Hi Cinema area, injuring several, further erodes public trust in the authorities tasked with maintaining law and order.
The government must investigate these crimes thoroughly and hold the perpetrators accountable, regardless of their affiliations. Failure to do so will only embolden the criminal elements and risk a further escalation of violence, potentially leading to a crisis similar to the one witnessed between 2013 and 2016.
The underlying economic hardships facing the country, with civil servants and the military going for months without salaries, are likely contributing to the rise in criminal activities. Addressing this issue should be a top priority for the government, as it is directly linked to the deteriorating security situation.
President Salva Kiir must take a leading role in addressing this crisis. He must reassure the citizens and demonstrate a firm commitment to curbing the wave of insecurity. Mere silence or inaction will only serve to erode public confidence in the leadership and its ability to maintain peace and stability.
The government must act swiftly to arrest the suspected criminals, conduct thorough investigations, and ensure that those found guilty face the full force of the law. Strengthening the police force and revamping the judicial system are crucial steps in this effort.
Furthermore, the government must prioritize the payment of salaries for civil servants and the military, as this will help alleviate the economic pressures driving some individuals to turn to criminal activities.
The people of South Sudan deserve to feel safe in their own country. The government must recognize the gravity of the situation and take immediate action to restore security and protect the lives and property of its citizens.
I appeal to the government of South Sudan to put more effort into protecting citizens and their properties and to arrest these so-called gangs to face the law
Be right there!
God Bless South Sudan