CES Security Committee Stresses Need for Reformatory Schools to Address Gang-Related Anti-Social Behaviors
Juba, 25 June 2025 (CESGPU) – The Central Equatoria State Security Committee, in an extraordinary meeting chaired by H.E. Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, Governor of Central Equatoria State, convened at the Juba Block to address several pressing security concerns affecting the State.
Key issues discussed during the meeting among others included the alarming rise in suicide cases within Juba, the increase in armed robberies, the urgent need for reformatory schools to rehabilitate gang-involved youth, and the regulation of pharmaceuticals in local clinics to ensure adherence to standard health protocols and curb drug abuse among young people.
Hon. Leon Abe Brown, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency noted that the Security Committee emphasized the importance of mental health support and community outreach programs as measures to reduce the growing number of suicides. He also stated that relevant security agencies had been directed to intensify surveillance to tackle the ongoing problem of armed robberies.
“We currently lack reformatory schools. When gang members are arrested, they are often released without undergoing any reform. Establishing reformatory schools will offer vocational training and help reintegrate these individuals into society as responsible and productive citizens,” said Hon. Abe.
He explained that the Committee resolved for the State Ministry of Health to continue its oversight of residential clinics, ensuring proper regulation to uphold public safety and deliver standard health services.
“We’ve observed that certain individuals, claiming to represent security organs, deploy themselves for personal gain. This malpractice leads to inflated commodity prices due to illegal taxation. Such behavior is unlawful,” Hon. Abe emphasized, urging that only officially mandated security agencies be allowed to operate in the markets.
The Minister reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to addressing security challenges across the State, particularly in light of the recent attack on Morobo County Hospital last Friday. He concluded by stressing the meeting’s goal to formulate actionable strategies aimed at enhancing peace and security across Central Equatoria State.
