More than 4,000 joint forces have been deployed to address crime during the Christmas and New Year festive seasons in Unity State according to police authorities.
John Malith, the police spokesperson in Unity State told Radio Tamazju Sunday that the forces will remain deployed across the state from 20 December 2023 to 5 January 2024.
“The security organs in Unity State, under the leadership of the acting governor who is the minister of local government and law enforcement agencies, William Dak Koy, convened to formulate a security plan for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. This comprehensive plan covers 12 days commencing on 20 December and concluding on 5 January 2024, aligning with the culmination of the New Year festivities,” he explained. “A joint force consisting of more than 4,000 members from various security organizations has been assembled to oversee the security arrangements. These forces will be strategically positioned at celebration venues, and entry points, and engaged in patrol activities. Additionally, escort forces have been mobilized to contribute to the overall security measures.”
“The deployment commenced on 21 December and the forces are actively working day and night and observers may notice the movement of these forces both on foot and in vehicles,” Dak added.
According to the police mouthpiece, the purpose of this plan is to ensure safe and peaceful celebrations during the festive season and he warned against celebratory gunfire.
“Our message to the public is that they can be confident of the security situation because there is thorough preparation for protection. We encourage everyone to enjoy the celebration peacefully,” he stated. “Our specific request is that there be no shooting of guns into the air during the festivities. We urge people not to use firearms for celebration but rather to express their joy in alternative ways. Additionally, we ask for cooperation with security forces and encourage the public to promptly report any incidents to the security personnel deployed throughout the town.”
“The entire town, including markets and public spaces, will be secure and we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” Dak added.
Expressing support for the deployment, Abdu Suliman, a Sudanese trader in Rubkona Market, commended the government’s proactive measures and urged the forces to adhere strictly to their job description.
“The government is taking positive steps because, during the Christmas season, some individuals may contemplate criminal activities such as killings and theft,” he asserted. “The law will protect us and if the government sends these forces, they should carry out their duties responsibly.”