Authorities in Jonglei State have intensified efforts to curb gang-related violence by launching a crackdown on machete-wielding groups, leading to multiple arrests.
Speaking to the media, Lieutenant Akech Mapiou, the police spokesperson, emphasized that criminal gang activities continue to pose a significant security threat in the state.
Many of the arrested, police said, were young men who joined the violent groups and engaged in street fights using dangerous weapons such as pangas and knives.
“As our hunt for these harmful gangs continues, we have arrested several members, including four suspects who were apprehended recently,” Mapiou stated.
Mapiou detailed a recent incident in which gang members were caught fighting near the Park Palace Hotel, using pangas as weapons.
“The police responded immediately and intervened. The suspects were fighting right in my presence, and we managed to arrest four of them,” he said. “No civilians were harmed, only the suspects. An investigation has already been initiated.”
Two of the arrested gang members sustained injuries during the fight and were taken to the Jonglei State Referral Hospital for treatment.
Mapiou called on Jonglei residents to take an active role in reporting gang-related activities to security forces for timely intervention.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility, not just that of the police or organized forces,” he stressed. “Protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors by reporting any criminal activity before it escalates.”
He further urged community members to cooperate and provide timely information to assist law enforcement in maintaining order and preventing gang violence.
Mapiou also appealed to the Jonglei State judiciary to try gang-related cases in the High Court, rather than informal or town courts, which often impose lenient sentences.
“When gang members are tried in informal courts, they receive a maximum sentence of six months because these courts cannot issue sentences exceeding two years. Using the High Court will ensure stronger legal action against these criminals,” he emphasized.
In a separate development, the Jonglei State Government recently announced a ban on civilians carrying guns and metallic pipes, which are often used as weapons in Bor Town.
During a security meeting chaired by Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok, who also serves as chairperson of the state security committee, officials resolved to prohibit civilians from wearing uniforms belonging to organized forces.
Governor Kok’s executive order follows growing concerns over youth moving around with firearms and metallic pipes, particularly in Marol Market and other public spaces.
These measures reflect a broader effort to curb street violence and enhance public safety in Jonglei State
