Residents in the capital of Jonglei State, Bor, are calling on local authorities to enhance security in the town and its surrounding areas to ensure a safe and joyful Christmas for their families.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, several residents, said they are unable to move outside Bor to celebrate because they fear that they will be attacked. They appeal to the police to deploy within and outside Bor.
A resident of Bor, Aguer Deng, acknowledged that the security situation within the town is relatively calm due to the control of activities. However, he emphasized that tension persists at the periphery.
“While the security situation within Bor town is calm and people are actively engaged in Christmas procession rehearsals, the outskirts remain tense. We are unable to travel even a short distance outside Bor for Christmas visits. Therefore, my message to the government is to deploy security forces comprehensively,” Aguer stated.
Bol Deng Bol, another resident of Bor, expressed apprehension that security measures are not being enhanced in preparation for the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.
He conveyed a sense of uncertainty, stating, “There are mixed views about the current situation and what lies ahead. The recent intrusion by armed elements in Baidit has heightened fears, with people worried about potential increased attacks during the festive season. Unfortunately, we observe no visible efforts to bolster security through increased forces or deployments.”
Bol Deng Bol emphasized, “While we see road rehabilitation activities for processions, there is a notable absence of proactive security measures to prevent any unforeseen incidents. The focus seems to be on suppressing gang violence, but broader security concerns remain unaddressed.”
Bol, the head of the Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN), emphasized the government’s responsibility to safeguard its citizens. He pointed out that failing to do so amounts to a violation of the rights of free movement and assembly. Bol appealed to the government to formulate a comprehensive security plan to ensure the safety of Bor and its surrounding counties during the festive season.
In response, Jonglei State Police Commissioner Elia Costa Faustino stated that measures have been taken to maintain peace in Bor during the festive season. He reassured, “Within Bor, there is calm and order as we conduct night patrols. However, incidents such as cattle raids and child abductions have occurred outside Bor.”
He continued, “Our forces in Bor are on high alert, and they will be deployed in hotspot areas. Last week, we successfully arrested five gang members. As for the counties, each police inspector is devising local arrangements to enhance security for the festive season.”
To contact Radio Tamazuj with comments, news tips or information, write to radiotamazuj@gmail.com or use the contact form.