A wave of motorbike thefts and violent attacks has left residents of Wau town in Western Bahr el Ghazal State gripped by fear, as boda-boda riders become prime targets for criminals operating under the cover of darkness.
The latest incident occurred in the Zagolona area, where a commercial motorcyclist was shot during a nighttime ambush, reigniting public concern over the deteriorating security situation in the town.
“This is not the first time,” said Chol Kuach, chairperson of the Aweil Youth Association in Wau. “One of our members was recently ambushed at night. He refused to stop and was shot in the leg while trying to escape.”
Kuach urged police authorities to intensify their efforts to track down the perpetrators and restore public confidence. “The targeting of boda-boda riders is becoming alarmingly common. We need urgent action,” he added.
Efforts to obtain a comment from state police were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
John Apiny, a resident of Wau, shared a similar experience. “Just last week, we witnessed an attempted robbery. Thieves tried to steal a motorbike right in front of us. Thankfully, people nearby intervened and the rider escaped,” he said.
Apiny called on the state government to crack down on criminal networks and ensure that those involved in motorcycle theft are prosecuted.
John Aguer, a practicing lawyer and resident of Wau, acknowledged the police’s role in arresting suspects and bringing cases to court. “Some culprits have already been punished, but more needs to be done,” he said.
As fear spreads among Wau’s boda-boda community, residents are urging authorities to act swiftly before the streets become even more dangerous for those who rely on motorbikes for their livelihood.
