WAU, South Sudan, June 6 — Authorities in Western Bahr El Ghazal State have approved the use of live ammunition by security forces to curb escalating gang-related violence in  Wau, following a surge in machete attacks, robberies, and armed confrontations.

The resolution was reached during a recent State Security Committee meeting, with officials vowing to crack down on increasingly organised criminal groups threatening public safety.

Wau Town Mayor Dansio William announced the directive, stating that all branches of the security sector have been ordered to act decisively.

“The army, national security, police, prison officers and civil defence should use live bullets on anyone caught cutting someone with a machete, breaking into homes, or robbing people,” William said. “They are the cause of insecurity in Wau town.”

South Sudan People’s Defense Forces Division Five Commander Gen. Jiel Mangong Yel echoed the urgency, warning that local gangs have grown more sophisticated and emboldened.

“There is someone they call ‘His Excellency,’ but in Wau there should only be one ‘His Excellency’, and that is the governor,” Mangong said. “These groups have so-called ministers of defence, finance and information. They carry machetes, pistols, swords and guns. When forces intervene and fire warning shots, they retaliate. That is organised resistance, and we will respond accordingly.”

Officials did not specify when the new orders would be implemented but emphasized that law enforcement agencies are now authorized to use lethal force in situations involving violent gang members.

The announcement has sparked debate among residents and human rights observers over the proportionality and legality of the new policy. No public statement from the national government or civil society groups was immediately available.