By Philip Buda Ladu
South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) has released a comprehensive security report detailing a series of tragic incidents that occurred nationwide between October 21st and 28th, 2024.
SSNPS registered a total of 21 deaths and 15 injuries due to various causes including armed violence, domestic violence, suicides, murder, accidental deaths, and drowning among others in a week-long report.
Col. John Kassara Koang, the Spokesperson for the South Sudan National Police Service released the security reports to the media and extended to No.1 Citizen Daily Newspaper.
He highlighted the tragic incidents registered by the police authorities, especially the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) across the ten states and three administrative areas for the past week including:
Fatal Shootings:
Multiple incidents involving firearms resulted in fatalities, including a targeted killing of a 26-year-old man in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, a shooting at a disco club in Rum-tiit village of Maper-Akot payam of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, and a confrontation between security personnel in Abiem-nhom County, Ruweng Administrative Area.
Drownings:
A significant number of deaths were also attributed to drowning, particularly in areas affected by flooding, such as Aweil North County and Mangol River where several individuals, including a 17-year-old teenager, lost their lives due to water-related events in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State.
Suicides:
A number of individuals took their own lives due to personal issues and mental health challenges. They included a civilian and an SSPDF military officer in the rank of Major who according to CID preliminary findings hanged himself over personal related matters inside his uncle’s residence within Pibor town.
Domestic Violence:
A tragic case of domestic violence resulted in the murder of an old woman by her own son. On 23 Oct 2024, a 78-year-old lady was brutally assaulted and beaten to death by her 34-year-old son in Turalei, Warrap State. The suspect is said to be mentally unstable.
Violent Crimes:
Meanwhile, communal conflicts in some areas led to fatalities and injuries, highlighting ongoing subnational violence, tensions and disputes, such as the conflict between the Pan-Lual and Parker clans in Tonj North County on 25 Oct 2024 that left 4 dead and 7 others injured.
Those among many others are the security incidents that the police authorities have highlighted in its week-long security updates.
Security Concerns:
The SSNPS has identified several key security concerns including, flooding which continues to pose a significant threat to life and property in several states; Mental Health Crisis, where the increasing number of suicides underscores the need for mental health support services.
Furthermore, the report emphasized that persistent criminal activities, such as armed robbery and communal clashes, remain a challenge.
Analysis of Crime Trends:
While the report indicates a decrease in certain violent crimes, including armed robbery and revenge killings, the persistent issues of flooding, suicide, and unexplained deaths remain significant security concerns in the country.
However, the SSNPS urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
The police spokesperson encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities and seek support from mental health organizations.
He emphasized that the police force is committed to addressing these security challenges, ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all citizens.