Surge in Street Crime Prompts Swift Response
A spike in machete-wielding assaults has unsettled Juba residents in recent weeks. Police statistics point to rising night-time robberies, prompting authorities to launch an intensified anti-gang deployment across the capital.
Details of the Two-Day Operation
Maj. Gen. James Monday Enoka reports that 32 suspects, including nine minors, were seized on Monday and Tuesday. Officers recovered machetes, knives, cutters and wooden sticks. The detainees face allegations of robbery, theft, assault, murder and drug abuse, according to the police spokesperson.
Community Collaboration and Official Praise
Enoka credits “strong collaboration between our security forces and the community” for the arrests, urging residents to remain vigilant. All suspects are held at Gumbo Police Division as investigators prepare case files for court proceedings.
Concerns Raised by Families and Legislators
Some relatives told Radio Tamazuj their detained sons were previously forced into military training camps and later sent to Upper Nile front lines. Certain lawmakers echo the concern, calling for transparent screening to prevent abuses. Authorities have not publicly addressed the claims.
Next Steps for Law Enforcement
Police say last week’s sweep netted 182 suspects, 13 of whom are already convicted. Enoka vows that due process will guide the current cases, stressing the crackdown will persist until peace returns to Gumbo and beyond.