The arrests come in the wake of a series of violent incidents that have plagued Yambio since the removal of the former Governor

By Emmanuel Mandella

In a decisive move to restore peace in Yambio, Western Equatoria State Acting Governor Badagbu Daniel announced the arrest of nine individuals suspected of involvement in recent attacks, arson, and looting that have caused havoc in the town.

Speaking at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Yambio on Sunday morning, Acting Governor Badagbu addressed the congregation, acknowledging the community’s hardships due to escalating criminal activities. He assured residents that the government is taking firm action to protect citizens and their property.

The governor empathized with the public who he said have endured through suffering due to the rising criminal activities, including theft and destruction of property, and affirmed that hope would be restored following the arrest of the nine suspects.

“We will not allow criminals to terrorize our communities. Our priority is to protect our people, safeguard residential areas, and ensure that everyone lives in peace and harmony,” he said.

The arrests come in the wake of a series of violent incidents that have plagued Yambio since the removal of former Governor Alfred Futuyo by President Salva Kiir on February 10, 2025. Following the leadership change, tensions escalated, leading to increased criminal activities, including a deadly ambush on a Yambio–Juba bound passenger vehicle on March 18, which resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to six others.

In response to these challenges, Badagbu emphasized the importance of unity and non-retaliation. “We must not seek revenge. We are one people, South Sudanese, and we do not belong to tribes but belong to one nation,” the acting governor said.

To further bolster security, the governor announced the deployment of forces to various areas, including Riimenze, Bangasu, Makpandu, Ndavuro, Saura, Namutina, Nagero, Kubri Boo, Ringasi, Duma, and Tombura.

This initiative aims to create a stable environment conducive to farming, trade, and education.

Yambio County Commissioner Mbiko Barakati addressed concerns about potential ethnic tensions, clarifying that the recent crimes were perpetrated by criminals and were not ethnically motivated. “I want to clarify that this is not about the Balanda people; these are criminals and not an ethnic issue,” he stated.

The commissioner also announced the withdrawal of armed forces from checkpoints in Mbiti Yubu and Sug Siro. Police officers and National Security Personnel will now man the area and provide security, this in addition to some 700 youth mobilized in Yambio County to safeguard civilians and their property.

Authorities are urging citizens to cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities as efforts to restore law and order in Yambio and surrounding areas continue.

The recent surge in criminal activities underscores the challenges facing Yambio in the aftermath of political transitions. The community’s resilience and the government’s proactive measures aim to pave the way for a more secure and harmonious future.

“We must not seek revenge. We are one people, South Sudanese, and we do not belong to tribes but belong to one nation,” acting WES governor, Daniel Badagbu, sai