By Jacob Onuha Nelson
Central Equatoria State (CES) government has reported at least twelve cases of suicide in a period of a week and cited fears of increase.
Addressing media after the state security meeting, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, Hon. Leon Abe, expressed worries of surging suicide cases.
The weekly State Security Committee meeting, chaired by the state governor, Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, registered worries over the increase in the number of suicide cases.
Minister Abe also reported an increase in burglary and theft incidents in Juba County.
Over the past one week alone, suicide cases have risen to 12, alongside numerous incidents of looting and armed robbery,” Abe said in part.
The minister urged members of the public to report cases of suicide.
He emphasized that the committee’s directive to all security organs to intensify surveillance and crack down on criminal activities within the city.
We call on all security agencies to fully execute their mandate of protecting citizens and their property and to remain on high alert in order to apprehend and investigate those responsible,” Abe stated.
In security related scenario, the minister urged the citizens to follow proper legal procedures when acquiring land in order to avoid wrangles.
He emphasized that despite the government’s call on the public to cease illegal land activities, some members of the public are reported to be engaged in such activities.
He expressed that there is a need for public cooperation, particularly the verification and allocation of plots to rightful owners.
Abe commented on a followed reported clash during a recent plot allocation exercise conducted by the State Ministry of Housing, Land, and Public Utilities in Korok West.
Those involved in the land allocation exercise possessed valid documents. However, during the implementation of the allocation process, certain individuals attempted to sabotage the operation. As the Security Committee, we urge respect for the government and its institutions,” Abe noted.
While acknowledging isolated incidents in other parts of the state, he gave a remark on the overall security situation as calm. affirming the State Government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability, and called for continued cooperation between the public and security forces.