Residents of Joppa area in Juba say they are attacked, beaten and robbed of their valuables at gunpoint by men in uniform almost every night.

They say the gunmen target family members and take money forcefully, with some demanding “more cash”.

Those who show slight resistance to demands made by the men risk losing lives. The latest attacks resulted in killing of a young woman at the suburb.

“They ordered me to let one of the attackers in to remove money. He got in and grabbed some money and said: ‘The money is not enough. Get me more money’,” said a woman who requested anonymity for fear of backlash.

Others say they retire to bed as early as 7 O’clock in an attempt to avoid the attacks.

“8 O’clock is their time they show up,” said another resident, Mary Mary – real name withheld. “From 7pm, they lie and wait in the bushes.”

Eye Radio’s attempts to get the police to comment on the matter have been unsuccessful.

But when contacted, SPLA spokesman Brigadier Lul Ruai said the allegation “has not come to our attention”.

“Secondly, we have had cases of criminals putting on different types of uniforms. They end up committing crimes, then it turns out that they are mere criminals not SPLA soldiers,” Brig. Lul stated.

“It is premature to conclude that SPLA soldiers were involved.”

He added that the army will find out from “an SPLA officer who is in charge of Gudele area”. Joppa is sub-division of Gudele 2, which comprises blocks 1, 2, and 3.

(Additional information by Emmanuel Akile)