The South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) announced that six deaths, two injuries from violence, and 47 traffic accidents were recorded during the Christmas festivities between 24 and 26 December.
SSNPS Spokesperson Col. John Kassara Koang Nhial described the overall security situation across the country’s 10 states and three administrative areas as normal, despite incidents reported in Central and Eastern Equatoria states.
Violent Incidents in Central Equatoria
On 24 December, a 21-year-old National Security Service officer was stabbed in Juba’s Referendum residential area and later died from his injuries. A suspect has been detained, and investigations are ongoing.
Later that evening, the body of a 36-year-old Ugandan national was discovered at his workplace in Nyakuron. Police are investigating the cause of death.
A separate altercation in Mangatein that night left a 15-year-old boy and a 35-year-old man injured. Authorities arrested a suspect.
On Christmas Day, a South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) soldier was found dead in prison, and an autopsy is being conducted. In the Gumbo-Sherkat area, another SSPDF soldier committed suicide by hanging, while an 18-year-old man succumbed to stab wounds after an attack in Nyakuron.
In the early hours of 26 December, security personnel fatally shot a 20-year-old man during a pursuit of suspected gang members.
Shooting Incident in Eastern Equatoria
In Eastern Equatoria, a 27-year-old man was shot dead by unknown assailants in Ihemehejek Administrative Payam on Christmas Day. Police and local youth groups are tracking the perpetrators.
Traffic Accidents
The traffic police registered 47 minor motor accidents during the festive period, but no fatalities were reported.
The SSNPS urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to maintain safety during the holiday season.