The police commissioner of Western Bahr el Ghazal State said on Wednesday that eight individuals, suspected to be members of gang groups, were detained following a bout of insecurity in the town.
On Tuesday evening, heavy gunfire rattled the central town, sparking fear among residents.
The state police commissioner, Samuel Ajuong Chuor, told Radio Tamazuj that the shooting erupted as police intervened to quell a confrontation among individuals near Freedom Square and Jebel Rabua.
Ajuong clarified that the gunfire heard by residents was from police attempting to regain control and apprehend the gang members. “Although the gunshots created insecurity, they were provoked by individuals in Hai Jebel. Our nighttime patrol, known as 112, responded to the situation. Addressing issues related to these individuals requires concerted efforts from state security,” Chuor emphasized.
“We have arrested eight individuals involved in the incident. It’s essential to note that insecurity stems from economic challenges that our citizens are grappling with,” Ajuong added.
Ajuong issued a stern warning to the youth, urging them to refrain from engaging in activities that disrupt peace. “These individuals sought to cause trouble, but we are prepared to deploy maximum forces to maintain order,” he cautioned.
He reassured citizens that measures would be taken to address the issue and prevent any further insecurity caused by such groups in the town. Ajuong urged all youth to abstain from engaging in activities that could incite unrest within the state.
“However, it’s important to note that there is peace in the state, and therefore, no group should engage in behaviour that could disrupt the peace and safety of our people,” he emphasized.
The eight arrested individuals are currently in police custody for further investigation and will face legal consequences, Ajuong said.