South Sudan police are holding four gang members for allegedly attacking a wildlife base and robbing firearms in Naandi Payam of Ezo County in Western Equatoria State.
Brigadier Hussein Girisi, the acting police commissioner for Western Equatoria state told Radio Tamazuj that the gang, including its leader, was arrested on 22nd October.
“On 9th 10,2020 at 11 AM a group of gunmen attacked the wildlife base in Naandi Payam, Ezo County and looted guns from the soldiers and after three days CID and other organized forces attacked their hideout and arrested four of them including their leader,” he said.
Girisi pointed out that calm has returned to the area and urged citizens of Naandi Payam to return to their normal business as the government continues to investigate the matter.
“I want to assure the citizens not to fear, the criminals like that are everywhere, but I assure you our group CID, Police, and National Security are working to make sure we don't have trouble. Everyone is free to go to Ezo or Naandi as security is ok,” Girisi said.
Moses Zaza, the Chief of Naandi Payam confirmed that there was insecurity in the area before the arrest of the gang causing residents to flee and reside at the local church and health center.
“The time they came to our area people were not safe, even some people were displaced and went to the church but after the arrest people have started returning home,” chief Zaza said.
He called on all armed groups in the region to respect the peace agreement and the cessation of hostilities agreement signed.