‘Crime is not just an African problem’: South Sudanese community leader Achol Marial

A South Sudanese Community leader has urged calm in the wake of the recent furore about African gang violence in Victoria.

Achol Marial, a youth affairs officer for South Sudanese Community Association in Victoria, told Tom Elliott she believes the media is over-emphasizing African crime, but insists the issue is not being ignored by her community.

“I do believe they are (sensationalising African crime), crime is not just an African problem,” Ms Marial said.

“It’s an entire state problem.

“The South Sudanese community members that are in leadership are working closely with Victoria Police with the state government, it’s not just being ignored, it’s not being placed aside.

“Action is being taken and things are improving.”