By Baraka John
In response to a growing wave of thefts and looting across Yambio County, the Commissioner of Yambio County, Mbiko Barakati, has urged residents to collaborate with government security agencies to expose criminals hiding within their communities.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Commissioner Barakati emphasized that combating crime requires a collective effort from both the security forces and the public. He stressed that residents who have firsthand knowledge of suspicious activities are crucial in identifying and apprehending perpetrators.
He said combating crime is not just the work of the security forces; the public also plays a key role.
Barakati said the safety of the community depends on the cooperation of all its members. He specifically called on women and girls to distance themselves from individuals involved in criminal activities, urging them to report any known criminals to the relevant authorities.
“You should also help the government with information. Don’t hide criminals in your areas, and do not associate with criminals. The county commissioner previously said he doesn’t want criminals. So, women and girls, disassociate with criminals from today, if there is a criminal who is your friend report him to the security organs”. Barakati urged
In recent weeks, Yambio has witnessed a disturbing rise in thefts, burglaries, and violent crimes. Residents have reported instances of armed robberies, with criminals breaking into homes and robbing families at gunpoint. The surge in criminal activity has left many residents feeling unsafe and fearful for the welfare of their families.
Local authorities have emphasized that while security forces are actively working to curb the rise in crime, public cooperation is essential for a lasting resolution.
Commissioner Barakati said the government hopes that increased vigilance from the community will help restore peace and security to the area.
In an interview on Monday, the Western Equatoria State Minister of Cabinet Affairs, John Bariona, acknowledged the improvement in the general situation in Yambio but expressed concerns over the ongoing destruction of property. He reported that houses have been set ablaze by individuals dressed in uniforms, further complicating the security situation.
“The situation is coming calm, but not really, because of burning of the houses by unknown persons but they are in uniform, and that made the situation a little bit very complicated for us, it is not difficult but very complicated, we don’t know who are doing that”. Bariona disclosed
Since the removal of Governor Alfred Futoyo in February, residents of Yambio County have continued to report waves of criminal activities, including looting, house burnings, and various forms of harassment and intimidation. Many fear that without greater cooperation between security agencies and the public, the situation may deteriorate further.