The concern arises during what locals describe as the “hunger period”—a time of economic hardship that has coincided with a series of robberies and assaults, particularly targeting residents walking home after dark.
Deng Madut Nyuol, a resident of Naifasha neighbourhood in Aweil Town—the state capital—said his cousin was attacked by a group of young men last week.
“What made us tip off the government is that these gangs rob people at night, taking phones and other valuables like money,” Madut said.
“A woman related to me also told me her son was robbed at gunpoint or with a panga while walking home in the dark last Thursday. These incidents are becoming too frequent,” he added.
He added that similar reports of theft have emerged from the nearby Deng Nhial’s neighbourhood, heightening fears among residents.
Mary Achol, from Maper Akot Aru in northern Aweil Town, echoed these concerns. She criticised local authorities for what she described as a lack of action.
“The issue of gangs is widespread these days. We blame it on poor management by local councils, who have failed to arrest these young boys. Some take tramadol and become violent—even as early as dusk,” she said.
In response, Aweil Town Municipal Council Mayor Joseph Ayat acknowledged the issue and said the local government is taking steps to address it.
“This matter has been raised in cabinet meetings, and we are working with police and security forces to arrest the gangs, who are locally known as ‘niggers’,” he stated.
“These groups include girls and are often seen drinking and engaging in disruptive activities. We are closely monitoring them,” he added.
Ayat also urged residents to avoid staying late in the market and to exercise caution. He said many of those involved in criminal activity are young men who have left their villages and now roam the town in groups, posing a threat to the community.
Beyond Aweil Town, residents in other counties across Northern Bahr el Ghazal have reported a rise in cattle thefts, particularly at night. Victims say attempts to trace stolen livestock have largely been unsuccessful.
While authorities have pledged to act, it remains unclear what concrete measures the state government will take to prevent further deterioration of security, a situation many residents blame on worsening hunger and economic hardship.
