Police in Juba have warned residents to exercise caution when using public transport, revealing how suspected criminals disguise themselves as taxi operators to lure passengers before robbing them.
Police spokesperson Major General Daniel Justin said officers received more than five reports of such incidents about two months ago, involving suspects who allegedly operated in groups.
According to Justin, the suspected robbers used vehicles carrying multiple occupants while pretending to offer public transport services.
“The drivers pretend to be operating public transport, but once passengers get into the vehicles, they take them to other places and rob them,” Justin said.
He said the situation had since calmed following police intervention, but urged residents to remain vigilant when boarding vehicles.
Justin advised commuters to verify drivers’ identities, establish their intended destinations and avoid entering unfamiliar vehicles without first confirming their purpose.
He further cautioned residents against boarding vehicles indiscriminately, emphasising the importance of taking precautions when using public transport.
