Yambio authorities suspend disco activities over rising insecurity

YAMBIO – Local authorities in Yambio County of South Sudan’s Western Equatoria State have suspended all disco and night entertainment activities following a spike in insecurity reported over the past week.

The suspension was issued by Yambio County Commissioner Michael Ismail Medi Migido, who said the measure is intended to protect residents—particularly youth—from increasing night-time violence and criminal incidents linked to late-night gatherings.

Speaking to the media, Commissioner Micheal ismail  Medi said several entertainment spots had recently become hotspots for fights, theft, and violent confrontations.

“We cannot allow activities that put the lives of our young people and the entire community at risk. The suspension will remain in force until the security situation stabilises,” the commissioner stated.

Security officials say several armed youth and gang-related groups have been involved in clashes around entertainment venues, especially during weekends.

Parents and community leaders have been urging the local government to regulate or temporarily halt disco operations to prevent further incidents.

The commissioner has directed security forces to enforce the order, warning that any operator who violates the directive will face penalties.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong, the Police Commissioner of Western Equatoria State, told Sudans Post that the situation has begun to normalise over the past four days following last week’s armed confrontation in Yambio, which left three people dead and two others injured.

Madut said the decision by Yambio authorities to suspend discos and other night activities was necessary to calm tensions and allow security organs to investigate the root causes of the gunshots, attacks, and reported looting.

“Movement is now peaceful, there is no gunfire in the town, and the situation is calm. The order was issued by the county commissioner, and police are working to maintain security,” he added.

Sudans Post was unable to reach disco owners for comment on the suspension. Authorities say the measures are temporary and aimed at restoring peace in Yambio.

The exact cause of the two days of clashes between security forces last week remains unclear, as local authorities have not released full details regarding the shootings, killings, and injuries.