By Emmanuel Mandella

Authorities in Yambio have arrested at least 15 suspected criminals, among them members of organized forces.

The suspects are accused of violent crimes and terrorizing residents in the area.

The arrests, conducted last weekend, led to the recovery of stolen items, including motorcycles, mobile phones, cooking utensils, and other household belongings. Security forces also confiscated weapons such as pangas, knives, firearms, and metal tools used to attack unsuspecting residents at night.

Daniel Badagbu, Western Equatoria State Acting Governor, commended the security forces for their swift action, assuring the public that those arrested would face justice.

“I have always said that criminals are behind the chaos in Yambio, and now we have proof. I thank our security forces for their dedication. These criminals must be brought before the court of law within 48 hours,” Badagbu stated.

Since the arrests, local authorities report a significant drop in criminal activities.

Meanwhile, the Acting Police Commissioner, General Samuel Tet, confirmed that some of the suspects belonged to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the Commando Unit.

“It is unfortunate that some of those arrested are from our organized forces, people who should be protecting civilians. Investigations will determine their level of involvement, and they will face the full force of the law,” Gen. Tet said.

Yambio County Commissioner, Mbiko Barakat, urged residents to remain united and vigilant in protecting their communities.

“Security is a collective responsibility. We must work together to ensure criminals do not take over our homes and roads. I encourage every citizen to report suspicious activities to security forces,” he emphasized.

The State Minister of Local Government James Severino, condemned the actions of some well-dressed youths who appear responsible during the day but engage in theft and violent crimes at night.

“It is disheartening to see young people wasting their potential in crime. I call upon them to engage in agriculture and other productive work instead of terrorizing their own people,” Severino said.

Several victims of recent attacks have welcomed the arrests but insisted that justice must be served. One resident, who preferred anonymity, recalled how his home was looted in the middle of the night.

“They took everything phones, money, even my children’s school uniforms. We were helpless,” he said.

Another victim, a woman who was robbed one time while traveling along the residential area within Yambio County around 8 pm, expressed relief but urged security forces to remain alert.

“They stopped my vehicle, took my belongings, and even beat some passengers. I hope they pay for what they did,” she lamented.

The security situation in Yambio has worsened since the removal of former Governor Alfred Futuyo in early February, with a surge in violent crimes targeting civilians.

Authorities now believe that the recent crackdown is a significant step toward restoring peace and stability.

As the suspects await court proceedings, residents hope that justice will be served swiftly and that Yambio will once again become a safe place for all.