More than 50 youths suspected of involvement in organized gang activity have been arrested in Torit, as authorities in Eastern Equatoria State move to crack down on rising incidents of violence and public disorder.
The arrests followed a security operation on Friday, April 3, targeting a group accused of roaming parts of the town armed with machetes, pangas, and other sharp objects.
Officials said the group comprising both boys and girls, including at least 14 females had allegedly been linked to acts of intimidation and unrest that alarmed residents.
Governor Louis Lobong Lojore responded swiftly, visiting the Al Giada Military Garrison on Saturday to assess the situation of the detainees and receive updates from security forces.
During the visit, he reiterated the state government’s commitment to restoring law and order and preventing further escalation of violence.
Acting on a resolution by the State Council of Ministers, Governor Lobong ordered immediate corrective measures aimed at addressing both the security threat and the underlying behavior of those involved.
Under the directive, male suspects will be transferred to Juba for rehabilitation services, while female detainees will remain at the state prison for a minimum of 20 days, pending engagement by their parents or guardians.
Authorities say the approach is designed not only to enforce accountability but also to offer an opportunity for behavioral reform and reintegration into society.
Officials expressed concern over the increasing involvement of young people in violent activities, warning that such trends pose a risk to community stability.
Governor Lobong issued a strong warning that the state will not tolerate lawlessness, emphasizing that individuals found engaging in violence will face swift arrest and corrective action.
He also called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility in guiding their children and preventing them from being drawn into criminal behavior.
Residents in Torit have welcomed the intervention, expressing hope that the measures will restore calm and deter further incidents.
State authorities maintain that ensuring public safety remains a top priority, with continued efforts underway to strengthen security and community engagement across the region.
The arrests followed a security operation on Friday, April 3, targeting a group accused of roaming parts of the town armed with machetes, pangas, and other sharp objects.
Officials said the group comprising both boys and girls, including at least 14 females had allegedly been linked to acts of intimidation and unrest that alarmed residents.
Governor Louis Lobong Lojore responded swiftly, visiting the Al Giada Military Garrison on Saturday to assess the situation of the detainees and receive updates from security forces.
During the visit, he reiterated the state government’s commitment to restoring law and order and preventing further escalation of violence.
Acting on a resolution by the State Council of Ministers, Governor Lobong ordered immediate corrective measures aimed at addressing both the security threat and the underlying behavior of those involved.
Under the directive, male suspects will be transferred to Juba for rehabilitation services, while female detainees will remain at the state prison for a minimum of 20 days, pending engagement by their parents or guardians.
Authorities say the approach is designed not only to enforce accountability but also to offer an opportunity for behavioral reform and reintegration into society.
Officials expressed concern over the increasing involvement of young people in violent activities, warning that such trends pose a risk to community stability.
Governor Lobong issued a strong warning that the state will not tolerate lawlessness, emphasizing that individuals found engaging in violence will face swift arrest and corrective action.
He also called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility in guiding their children and preventing them from being drawn into criminal behavior.
Residents in Torit have welcomed the intervention, expressing hope that the measures will restore calm and deter further incidents.
State authorities maintain that ensuring public safety remains a top priority, with continued efforts underway to strengthen security and community engagement across the region.
