Tonj South County Wildlife Director in Warrap State on Monday urged the entire community and students to stop bathing and washing at the river to avoid crocodiles and hippos and other water animals from eating humans.
Deng Thuc Majook said they banned bathing at the river because it is full and many water animals could feed on people, Don Bosco Radio reported.
The Director urged parents and guardians to advise children against playing at river bank to minimize waterborne diseases like cholera.
He said last week a nine-year old boy jumped from Tonj Bridge into the river only to be caught by hooks, but he was rescued.
The Director said wild animals including lions and tigers are also coming now close to people, advising citizens to stay away.
He told citizens not to kill wild animals because they are sources of revenue.