By Emmanuel Mandella

Authorities in Western Equatoria State have confirmed the arrest of several teenagers suspected of torching civilian homes in Yambio.

The announcement was made by Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu, who assured the public that security forces are intensifying efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“There are criminals who are causing problems in Yambio by burning people’s houses, mostly at midnight. The good news is that we have started arresting them. This week alone, we have taken four suspects into custody for investigation,” Rimbasa stated.

According to him, some of the suspects are minors, raising concerns that they could be acting under the influence of more powerful individuals.

“If they are being used by others, we will investigate further to understand the motive. Rest assured, all those responsible will be brought to justice,” he added.

The arrests come amid a series of arson attacks at night, which have left families homeless and businesses destroyed. The worst-hit areas include Tambura, Nagero, Ketiba, Mundri East, Minga, Rakampa, and Lakamadi, where criminals have set homes ablaze, forcing residents to flee.

Paul Luk Lostico, a resident of Zambago suburb in Yambio, is among the latest victims. He recounted a terrifying attack last week when armed men stormed his home and held him at gunpoint before setting his house ablaze.

“My hand and leg were cut with a panga. I have reported the case to the police, National Security, and the legal department in Yambio County,” he said.

The attackers looted his belongings, including four phones, a laptop, and his school documents dating back to his early education.

“This (arson) is happening every day. My documents from baby class to university were burned, and I could not recover anything,” he lamented.

Acting Governor Badagbu has called on local communities to support security efforts by strengthening community policing.

“I encourage every village and residential area to engage actively in community policing. This will provide early warnings and assist the police in identifying and apprehending criminals before they cause further harm,” he urged.

Meanwhile, Yambio Town Municipality Mayor John Singira called for tougher measures to protect civilians.

“The government must act decisively to safeguard lives and property. Every South Sudanese in Yambio, regardless of their political affiliation, should live in harmony,” he said.

Singira assured residents that Western Equatoria remains a democratic space where all political parties, including SPLM, SPLM-IO, SSOA, and OPP, have the right to operate freely without fear of violence.

In response to the crisis, the Western Equatoria State government pledged to strengthen security forces to curb the rising insecurity.

“Our priority is to protect civilians and uphold the rule of law. Those behind these crimes will face the full force of justice,” Badagbu said.

As the government moves to restore order, residents remain on edge, hoping that swift action will put an end to the cycle of violence in the area.