Police in Western Bahr el Ghazal state arrested 28 suspects over four days during the Christmas holiday period in Wau, authorities said Monday.
State police spokesperson Maj. Santino Oduol Mayen told Radio Tamazuj Monday that the arrests followed the registration of 51 criminal cases between Dec. 24 and Dec. 27.
Of the 28 suspects, 16 face serious charges, including murder and rape, while others are linked to traffic accidents and other offenses, Mayen said. He added that investigations are ongoing and those charged will be brought before court.
“There are a number of people arrested during Christmas on different criminal charges, including traffic-related offenses, sexual violence and killings,” Mayen said.
Mayen said the crime rate during this year’s Christmas celebrations was lower compared with the same period last year, attributing the decline to joint efforts by security forces, civil society groups, faith-based organizations and the state government.
“When we compare the celebrations of 2024 and 2025, there is a difference in crime rates, and this is due to the work done by organized forces and other security partners,” he said.
Separately, the state traffic police director, Capt. John Chol, said two people died in traffic accidents in Wau town during the same period.
Chol said one pedestrian was seriously injured on Dec. 24 after being hit by a motorcycle, while the rider was arrested. On Dec. 25, a motorcyclist died after losing control of his bike in the Hai Awiel-Jedid area.
He said another fatal accident occurred on Dec. 27 in the Eastern Bank area when a driver attempting to evade arrest struck people sitting under a shelter, killing a 19-year-old. The driver was arrested and charged, Chol added.
“In total, we recorded four traffic accidents from Dec. 24, resulting in two deaths and two people in critical condition,” Chol said.
He urged drivers to reduce speed within Wau town to help prevent further loss of life.