South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
In the bustling streets of Juba, a harmful stereotype persists regarding South Sudan’s motorcycle taxi operators, known as Senke riders often referred to by the slang term “Toronto,” which has become associated with thieves and petty criminals, these riders face daily discrimination driven by fear and misinformation.
Although some criminal acts, such as bag snatching, have involved motorcycles, this does not justify the sweeping generalization that all Senke riders are criminals. In truth, many are simply hardworking individuals striving to earn an honest living in a country where formal employment opportunities are limited.
In an exclusive interview, Ben Peter, a respected teacher at a Catholic school in Juba, shares his personal experience of being unfairly judged. Despite his profession, he has been wrongly accused multiple times of being a “Toronto” simply because he rides a motorcycle.
“I was once attacked by a crowd just because someone’s bag was snatched nearby,” Peter recalled. “The real thieves had already escaped on another bike, but I happened to be in the same area. People didn’t ask questions; they just assaulted me.”
He was only spared further harm after showing his work ID. “These labels can be dangerous,” he added. “People judge us without understanding who we really are.”
Ben Peter the teacher of Catholic school going home after work credit (Jenifer James)
For Peter and many others, the social cost of riding a motorcycle is significant. “Sometimes, people cross the road or grip their bags tighter when they see me. It hurts. They don’t see me as a teacher or a father; they only see a threat,” he said.
He is quick to highlight the flaw in generalizing all riders. “Criminals don’t just use motorcycles. Some walk, and some drive cars. It’s unfair to assume that every Senke rider is a thief. Be cautious; not all of us (Senke riders) are Torontonians. Many of us are simply trying to survive, provide for our families, and live with dignity.”
the police spokesperson Col. John Kassara Koang (credit courtesy)
Col. John Kassara Koang, spokesperson for the South Sudan National Police Service, stated that his office is still compiling a comprehensive report on recent incidents involving the group locally referred to as the “Toronto Boys.”
“After reading your message yesterday, I did not respond because there are some reports I have yet to receive,” Kassara explained. “I have been outside the country for almost 21 days, so the reports that came in during my absence are still pending review.”
Kassara assured the public and the media that he is working to obtain all necessary documentation to provide a complete and accurate account of events.
“I will try my best to ensure that I get all these reports,” he said. “Once I have them, I will file everything accordingly, and then I can provide an accurate report. I ask for your patience; it’s important that I deliver full information.”
Flora John during the time of interview (photo by Jenifer James)
Flora Kadi John, a victim of one of the recent attacks attributed to the “Toronto Boys,” shared her experience. She reported being targeted three times in Juba, with her most recent incident occurring near Malakia.
“My bag was snatched by boys on a motorcycle,” she recounted. “Many people believe the Toronto Boys use Senke bikes, but these boys were riding a TVS motorcycle.”
Flora emphasized that the group may be using various types of motorcycles. “These boys are using different models,” she said. “I was surprised because many think it’s only Senke they use, but the ones who grabbed my bag were definitely on a TVS.”
Human Rights Activist Ter Manyang Gatwech speaking to the press (credit courtesy)
Meanwhile, Ter Manyang Gatwech, a prominent human rights activist, believes the issue is connected to broader systemic challenges, particularly youth unemployment.
“There is a serious need for the government to invest in decent jobs for young people,” Ter said. “Due to years of conflict, many youths haven’t seen the peace dividends they were promised. Instead, they’re being unfairly labeled.”
Ter emphasized that blaming all Senke riders for the actions of a few only fuels division. “If one rider is caught stealing, that doesn’t mean the rest are criminals. This is how misinformation spreads, and we must correct it.”
As Juba continues to grow and evolve, so too must the public’s perception. For people like Peter, the message is clear: don’t judge a rider by their vehicle.
NB: This story is reported with a grant from Journalists for Human Rights under the Tackling Mis/Disinformation Project, funded by the Peace and Stabilization Programme of the Government of Canada.
