Calm Amidst Minor Incidents: South Sudan Police Report Highlights Holiday Security Overview
In a recent statement, Colonel John Kassara Koang Nhial, spokesperson for the South Sudan National Police Service, reported that the security situation across the country remained relatively calm and stable during the period from December 26 to 30, 2024. This assessment comes in the wake of the Christmas festivities, although some minor criminal incidents were documented across various states and local administrative areas.
“Overall, the highways and interconnecting routes between states were secure throughout the Christmas period, though a few isolated cases of social violence were recorded,” Kol. Nhial stated.
Among the reported incidents were several acts of violence, including:
Domestic Violence in Gogrial West County: On December 26, a 31-year-old housewife was beaten to death by her husband in Gumel-Ayok-Thok village. The perpetrator has been apprehended, and a case has been opened at the Kuajok County Police Station.
Stabbing Incident in Wau: Also on December 26, a 20-year-old male was violently assaulted and stabbed to death in the Lologo residential area. The suspect is in custody, and investigations are underway at the Wau Town Police Station.
Rape Case in Awiel East County: On the same day, a 12-year-old girl was raped by a 38-year-old man in Majook-yien-thiou. The victim was taken to Malual-Kon hospital for medical care, and the suspect has been arrested with a case opened in Awiel East County Police Station.
Shooting in Maban County: A 44-year-old Sudanese national was shot and injured by an unidentified assailant on December 27. The victim was hospitalized, and a case has been initiated by the Maban County Police.
Accidental Shooting in Maban Refugee Camp: On December 27, an armed Sudanese man accidentally shot his wife when he missed his target. He was apprehended and remains in custody for further questioning.
In a separate note, the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D) reported receiving 10 South Sudanese deportees from Egypt at Juba International Airport on December 23. Without any criminal records, they were reunited with their families.
As preparations for New Year celebrations ramp up, the police have enacted a security plan aimed at ensuring the safety of the public. Deployment of forces will cover key areas including Juba International Airport, churches, public gathering spots, and markets.
Key security measures during the festivities will include:
– Searches for celebrants at designated entry points.
– Female police personnel conducting searches for women to uphold dignity and respect.
– Ongoing monitoring along roads by five security sectors.
Police objectives for the New Year celebration include protecting lives and property, providing security for churches and gatherings, preventing theft or property damage, ensuring shopper safety in busy retail areas, and thwarting potential cyber threats such as phishing scams targeting online consumers.
The police also issued a warning to club owners regarding the risks of allowing unauthorized teen gatherings at their venues.
As the year comes to a close, Colonel Nhial conveyed his wishes for a safe and joyous New Year, hoping it brings “new happiness, new goals, and new achievements” for all. Happy New Year to you and your family!
