Africa-Press – South-Sudan. More than 400 youth gang members in the border town of Nimule have voluntarily surrendered weapons to local authorities in a bid to promote peace and improve security in the town, officials said.
According to Nimule Town Council, a total of 418 individuals handed over dangerous items including knives, pangas (machetes), slashes, spears, and hammers. The disarmament followed a two-day dialogue organized by the Jerusalem Episcopal Council in collaboration with local authorities, aimed at addressing gang violence and fostering community reconciliation.
Nimule Mayor Caesar Longa Fuli told Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday that the youths surrendered the weapons without any government directive, describing the move as a self-initiated decision by the groups involved.
“It was their own decision. They approached the security forces saying they were tired. After lengthy discussions, they resolved to lay down their weapons voluntarily,” Longa said. “We witnessed the disarmament. They promised not to engage in criminal activities again.”
The mayor expressed concern about the lack of resources to support the reintegration of former gang members, urging humanitarian organizations and government partners to provide vocational training and development programs.
“We need to ensure these children do not return to crime. We are appealing to those with funding to support vocational skills training so that we can help rebuild their lives,” he said.
State Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Idwa Magret Okuye, confirmed the disarmament and said her ministry is working with partners to mobilize resources.
“This is a significant step. Over 400 youths surrendered and declared they are tired of the violence. They handed over knives, pangas, hammers and other harmful tools,” she said. “We are committed to supporting them through skills training and reintegration efforts.”
Civil society activist Charles Okullu also welcomed the initiative, calling it a critical step toward peace and coexistence.
“Criminal activities hinder development. These youths need practical skills training since most of them dropped out of school long ago,” he said. “This is a positive development. Violence cannot be a means to earn a living.”
Last month, local authorities launched a crackdown on gang activities in Nimule, resulting in the arrest of more than 30 individuals, some of whom have since been prosecuted.
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