Eastern Equatoria authorities launch crackdown on gangs after weekend attacks

TORIT – Authorities in South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria State capital Torit launched a crackdown on gang groups following a series of attacks on residents over the weekend, a senior official said.

The attacks took place in residential neighborhoods of Torit on Saturday night, sparking significant anxiety among residents, forcing many to remain awake out of fear of further violence.

Speaking to Sudans Post on Monday, Torit Mayor Mustafa Albino Zakaria expressed deep concern regarding the situation, stating that seven people were currently hospitalized at Torit Civil Hospital with injuries sustained during the attacks.

He said the victims originated from the Ifwanyak and Morwari areas.

The mayor acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement in apprehending the gang members due to their tactics of evasion.

He emphasized the importance of cooperation from residents, urging them to report any suspected gang hideouts to assist security patrols in their efforts.

“Yesterday, at approximately 10 p.m., we received reports of gang activity. By the time our officers arrived at the scenes in Ifwanyak and Morwari, the perpetrators had already inflicted injuries upon residents. We transported a total of seven wounded individuals to the state hospital for treatment,” he said.

“We are committed to employing robust methods to apprehend these gangs. While they may attempt to evade capture, we will do everything within our power to bring them to justice,” he added.