The Rise of Youth Gangs Like the “Torontos” (notorious for snatching bags/phones while on motorbikes) and “Niggas” (often involved in Territorial Street Fighting) is a Complex Security and Social Challenge in Juba.

Tackling this requires a “Whole-of-Society” approach—combining immediate law enforcement with long-term community rehabilitation.

Here is a strategic breakdown of how this can be addressed:

1. Strengthened Law Enforcement & Patrols

To address the immediate threat in hotspots like Gudele, Mia Saba, and Shirikat, the police and National Security Services (NSS) can implement:

• Targeted Night Patrols: Increased presence in known gang territories, particularly during the evening hours when “Toronto” snatchings are most frequent.

• Boda-Boda Regulation: Since many “Torontos” use motorbikes, enforcing strict registration, plate visibility, and banning the use of tinted visors or hoodies while riding can help identification.

• Community Policing: Establishing direct communication lines between neighborhood chiefs and local police stations to ensure rapid response when gangs gather.

2. Economic Empowerment & Job Creation

Many youth join gangs due to extreme poverty and lack of a future.

• Vocational Training: Creating centers in Hi Referendum and Konyokonyo that teach carpentry, mechanics, masonry, and tailoring.

• Micro-Grants: Providing small-scale funding for youth-led businesses to offer an alternative to the “quick money” of street crime.

• Public Works Programs: Engaging youth in neighborhood improvement projects (road clearing, drainage) for a daily wage to keep them occupied and productive.

3. Psychosocial Support & De-radicalization

Some gang members are traumatized by conflict or displaced from their families.

• Rehabilitation Centers: Moving away from just “prison” toward “reform.” Centers should offer counseling to address substance abuse and trauma.

• Religious & Community Leaders: Leveraging the influence of the Church and tribal elders to mentor at-risk youth and mediate between rival gangs to stop “turf wars.”

4. Educational Integration

• Back-to-School Initiatives: For younger gang members, the government and NGOs should subsidize school fees to get them off the streets.

• Extracurricular Engagement: Organizing football tournaments and music/arts festivals in places like Gudele can channel youthful energy into positive competition.

Summary of Actions by Sector

Important Note: A purely “iron fist” approach (arrests only) often leads to further radicalization in prison. Lasting peace in Juba’s neighborhoods will likely depend on whether these young people feel they have a stake in South Sudan’s economy.