Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The Central Equatoria State government has raised alarm over a surge in robberies in Juba, warning of a newly emerging criminal network that is targeting motorists through deception and coordinated attacks.
The warning follows the 8th Ordinary Security Meeting held on Tuesday at the State Secretariat, where security agencies presented what officials described as a troubling trend of rising crime. According to the statement, authorities are concerned over “increasing cases of robbery in Juba City,” particularly along major routes.
The meeting, chaired by Deputy Governor Paulino Lokudu Obede, received a detailed security report highlighting a spike in street robberies, “particularly along the road to Juba International Airport.”
Security officials said the attacks are being carried out by organised gangs using motorbikes and disguises. The statement revealed that “a new network of criminal gangs has emerged in Juba,” adding that the groups “use motorbikes and impersonate security personnel, setting up fake checkpoints at night to rob motorists and civilians.”
Among those targeted is “an advisor in the State Ministry of Gender,” underscoring the growing reach and boldness of the criminal network.
Speaking after the meeting, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Leion Abe called for urgent action, urging security agencies to move swiftly against the perpetrators. He emphasised the need “to take immediate action against the criminal groups threatening public safety.”
Beyond crime, the meeting also raised public health concerns. Officials noted “a reported outbreak of the Mpox virus in neighbouring Western Equatoria State,” and called on the national Ministry of Health to strengthen prevention and response measures.
The security committee further appealed to the national Ministry of Interior to enhance coordination, urging it “to establish a town hall system to improve coordination and cooperation among security agencies.”
Authorities said they have resolved to intensify security operations across Juba to dismantle the emerging criminal networks and restore public confidence.
The latest warning comes amid growing concern among residents over safety in the capital, particularly at night, as cases of armed robbery and street crime continue to rise.
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