“Who Do We Call Now?” Former Youth Leader Questions Silence Over Crime in Yei

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – A former youth leader in Yei River County has raised concern over what he describes as growing silence from community leaders, civil society organizations and rights groups amid reports of murder, robbery and rape in Yei Town.

In a statement shared publicly on his social media account on Thursday afternoon, Johnson Poru Hillary, lamented the continued insecurity affecting residents and questioned the lack of public condemnation of violent crimes.

“The painful scourge of murder, robbery, and rape continues to bleed our town, our only town,” he wrote.

Poru highlighted the recent killing of a young boy late Martin Wani, 18 years old, senior three Student of Excel International School, saying the incident reflects a wider pattern of violence that has left many residents fearful and frustrated.

“Look at this boy, shot to death. No one is responsible. No one wants to condemn. No one wants to know. No one cares,” he stated.

The former youth leader also criticised what he described as the silence of civil society organisations, human rights defenders and child protection groups in the face of ongoing insecurity.

“Civil society activists are quiet. Human rights defenders are quiet. Child rights organisations are quiet. Everyone is quiet,” he said.

According to Poru, the apparent lack of response from key stakeholders has fuelled feelings of helplessness among community members who are struggling to cope with repeated incidents of violence and insecurity especially in Hai Delib and Luparate areas, North of Yei town.

He questioned who residents can turn to for support and accountability, suggesting that many people have become exhausted by years of insecurity and uncertainty.

“Who do we call now? Are we tired? Why is everyone silent while all these evils happen? We are burned out. No energy is left,” he added.

His comments come amid continued concerns by residents over security challenges in parts of Yei River County, with calls for authorities, community leaders, civil society groups and humanitarian actors to strengthen efforts aimed at protecting civilians and promoting accountability.