Authorities in the Bentiu internally displaced persons camp in Unity State have arrested 19 members of gang groups in a security operation targeting criminal activity, police said Friday.
State police spokesperson Capt. John Malieth said the suspects were detained following complaints from residents about rising insecurity in the camp.
He said some of those arrested were found carrying knives, while others were linked to drug abuse.
“The total number of gang members arrested in the IDP camp is 19. These groups are dangerous. Some move with knives and some are drug abusers,” Malieth said. “Some are charged under Section 313, others under Section 293, and others under Section 305.”
Among those arrested is a group known as “Y 3 Group Shoes,” which police say is linked to criminal activities in the camp.
He said the crackdown followed repeated reports from residents about threats to safety. Police pledged to continue operations to restore order and security in the area.
Investigations are ongoing, and police said those found guilty will be prosecuted under the law. Residents welcomed the arrests, expressing hope for improved security in the camp.
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