Acting Western Equatoria State Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa on Sunday confirmed the arrest of nine suspected criminals accused of involvement in attacks, arson, and looting in Yambio town.
He revealed on Sunday morning at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Yambio and said security forces apprehended the suspects on Saturday following a string of criminal activities that had created fear.
“People have suffered greatly due to rising criminal activities, including theft and destruction of property, but I bring you good news; yesterday (Saturday), we arrested nine individuals responsible for these acts,” he said. “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.”
“We must not seek revenge, we are one people, South Sudanese, and we do not belong to tribes but belong to one nation. We do not have divisions, we are Christians, and we must stand together in peace,” Badagbu emphasized.
He reassured citizens that security forces have been deployed to restore stability to allow citizens to go about their business.
“We are deploying security forces to Riimenze, Bangasu, Makpandu, Ndavuro, Saura, Namutina, Nagero, Kubri Boo, Ringasi, Dumo, and Tambura to ensure peace prevails. Our people need a stable environment to farm, trade, and send their children to school,” he stated. “Education is the foundation of progress. Now that the government has supported schools, every child must have access to learning.”
Meanwhile, Yambio County Commissioner Mbiko Barakati dismissed claims that houses belonging to the Balanda Community were destroyed as a result of ethnic violence.
“I want to clarify that this is not about the Balanda people, these are criminals and not an ethnic issue,” he said.
The commissioner announced that all armed forces stationed at checkpoints in Mbiti Yubu and Sug Siro have been withdrawn, leaving only police officers and National Security personnel to protect the community. He revealed that 700 youth had been mobilized in Yambio County to protect civilians and their property.
“Our goal is to maintain stability and prevent further criminal activities, and the security forces will continue working to keep Yambio safe,” he stated.
The officials urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities as efforts to restore law and order in Yambio and the surrounding areas are ongoing.