South Sudan’s government is stationing more than 100 security forces on disputed islands between Jonglei and Eastern Lakes States.
The troops, whose deployment was completed last week, would provide protection to citizens in the disputed islands of Cuet-Akuet and Jorwac.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday, the police commissioner for Jonglei State, Joseph Mayen Akoon said the protection forces were deployed to Cuet-Akuet and Jorwac islands more than a week ago.
“Those forces are from the police, national security and SSPDF [South Sudan People’s Defense Force]. They compose of more than 100 personnel,” he said.
“Those forces were deployed to provide security in the disputed islands along the river,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Twic East County commissioner, Emmanuel Atem Mading said fishing activities have resumed in the disputed islands following the deployment of the joint security force.
Last month, transport along the Nile between the two states was suspended after two rival groups fought over Cuet-Akwet island. Several people were reportedly killed and others were injured.
Two rival communities— the Adhioc community from Jonglei’s Twic North County and Ciec community from Awerial East County of Eastern Lakes State — claim the ownership of Cuet-Akwet island.