(WAU) – Communities in Wau South County have raised alarm over increasing insecurity caused by violent youth gangs, commonly known locally as “neighbourhood groups” or “Niggas.” Residents say the surge in assaults, thefts and intimidation has left families fearful, businesses struggling and livelihoods at risk.
Speaking anonymously, a resident from the Kosti area said the violence has become a part of daily life, leaving citizens feeling unsafe even in their own homes.
“These young people are causing fear among citizens,” the resident said. “The violence is getting worse, and we no longer feel safe in our own homes.”
In Bazia Jadid, another affected neighbourhood, locals say the situation is beginning to impact their ability to work and sustain their families. Some residents have stopped going to farms or conducting routine business activities, citing fear of attack or robbery.
A woman in the area voiced concerns about the long term effects of the insecurity.
“If this continues, it will destroy the future of the younger generation and the entire state,” she warned.
The violence has also reached neighbourhoods such as Baqari Jadid and Jebel Khail. Community members in these areas are urging the government to take immediate and coordinated action to restore safety. Their requests include the dismantling of known violent groups and the creation of local emergency response teams to address incidents as they arise.
One resident appealed for a stronger official response.
“We need a strong, clear plan from the government to eliminate these threats before more harm is done,” he said.
So far, no official statement has been issued by local or state authorities, but residents say the lack of a visible government response is further eroding public trust.
Many in Wau South fear that, without urgent intervention, the escalating gang activity could lead to wider instability across Western Bahr el Ghazal and surrounding areas.
The situation also reveals a broader issue affecting youth in South Sudan i.e. unemployment, lack of education and limited social services which often contribute to the formation of such groups.
Community leaders say that ending the violence requires more than policing. They are calling for investment in youth programmes, education and livelihood initiatives that can offer young people better alternatives to violence.
