Juba Suicide Cases Reach 12 in One Week

(JUBA) – Authorities in Central Equatoria State have raised concern over a spike in suicide cases and criminal cases in Juba County. During a weekly State Security Committee meeting held on Tuesday, the Governor of Central Equatoria, Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, chaired discussions on the current security situation across the state.

The Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, Hon. Leon Abe Brown, informed the committee that suicide cases in the state had risen sharply, with 12 cases reported in the last seven days. He also cited a surge in burglary, looting and armed robbery in various parts of Juba County.

“In the past week alone, suicide cases have risen to 12, alongside numerous incidents of looting and armed robbery,” Hon. Abe reported.

He urged all security agencies to step up their efforts to protect civilians and their property, and to remain alert in order to apprehend suspects and investigate criminal activities.

In response, the Security Committee instructed all security units to increase surveillance across the city and intensify efforts to curb criminal activities.

The Minister also addressed recent land disputes in Juba, particularly in Korok West, where a confrontation took place during a land allocation exercise. He appealed to the public to follow the correct legal procedures when acquiring land, and to support state efforts in verifying and distributing land to rightful owners.

“Those involved in the allocation process had valid documents,” Hon. Abe explained. “But during implementation, some individuals tried to sabotage the operation. As the Security Committee, we urge the public to respect the authority of the government and its institutions.”

Land allocation continues to be a sensitive issue in Juba, where legal and illegal claims often lead to disputes.

Despite the reported incidents, Hon. Abe described the broader security situation across the state as relatively calm. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability and encouraged public cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

The government did not provide a breakdown of the suicide cases or detailed data on the crimes reported.