The deputy governor of the proposed Gbudwe State, Victor Edward, has expressed concern about increasing crime rates in the state.

In an interview with Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday, Victor stated the area was witnessing surging crimes of killings and looting, saying several citizens including soldiers were killed by criminal groups.

He explained that the wife of a religious leader was killed by gunmen last Sunday, pointing out that similar crimes were also reported in Tombura and other areas in the state.

Separately, Victor Edward complained about rising prices of essential commodities at the market due to the closure of roads to Juba and Uganda.

He revealed that they depend on some goods from neighbouring Congo.