By Benjami Ajuong Machiek Malek
The heart of South Sudan’s city Juba, is becoming a frightening place for its residents.
Once a hopeful city, Juba is now experiencing alarming levels of crime, including what many are calling “silent killings.” This is a term used to describe the rise in violent acts where innocent people are harmed without warning. Between the hours of 8:00 PM and 5:00 AM, many neighborhoods are filled with fear as residents hear about murders, assaults, and robberies taking place.
Areas like Guddle Blocks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Hai Referendum, and Mangateen are some of the most affected. People living in these neighborhoods often hear gunfire at night and live in constant fear of being attacked. Unknown gunmen are terrorizing these areas, ordering people back into their homes, and carrying out violent crimes. This situation puts the lives of ordinary citizens at risk and makes life in Juba extremely challenging.
The crimes do not stop at murder. Many residents also face burglaries, thefts, and vandalism. Some areas, such as Sherkat, Jebel Suk, Longa, and Camiru, have become hotspots for these criminal activities. These acts happen at various times, making it impossible for citizens to feel safe even in their own houses. People are worried about their personal safety, and many have started to lose hope.
Worse still, reports of sexual violence, including rape and assault, are rising. Criminals are kidnapping and forcing individuals from their homes at night, subjecting them to terrible acts. Vulnerable groups, especially women and children, are at greater risk, and this situation is unacceptable. Every citizen should have the right to feel secure in their neighborhood, but fear now dominates Juba’s streets.
Many are asking, “Where is the government?” It is a valid question because the people of Juba are suffering in their own nation. The leaders and authorities seem to be inactive while innocent lives are at risk. Citizens are left to fend for themselves during a time when protection and security should be a top priority. A city can only thrive when its residents feel safe, yet fear has made Juba a place of suffering.
In addition to the increasing violent crimes, Juba is also facing another serious issue: cybercrime. Many residents fall victim to cybercriminals who hack their social media accounts, like Facebook, and trick them into giving away their money. Phishing attacks, where individuals are deceived into revealing personal information, pose a significant danger. These issues further remove the sense of safety and trust in the community.
The situation in Juba is dire. Gang members and criminal groups are creating chaos and suffering. They are attacking citizens, robbing them, and sometimes even hurting them physically. This total disregard for human life has made daily activities nerve-wracking and troublesome for many families.
People want to see change. It is essential for the government to step in and take action to restore security in Juba. Authorities must work hard to ensure that citizens can go about their daily lives without fearing for their safety. Investing in law enforcement, community support programs, and other protective measures is necessary to combat this rise in crime. Working together with the community is key to stopping the criminals that disrupt lives.
I would like to acknowledge the public that, Juba is facing severe challenges related to crime, including silent killings, assaults, and cybercrime. The suffering of the people can no longer be ignored. It is time for the government to take immediate action to protect its citizens. Juba has the potential to be a safe and thriving city, but this can only happen if people feel secure and supported. Ending the violence and crime is crucial for rebuilding hope in Juba and ensuring a better future for all its residents.
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