Security has been beefed up in the South Sudanese capital Juba ahead of the peace celebrations set for Wednesday at Dr. John Garang Mausoleum.
Police spokesman Daniel Justin told Radio Tamazuj this afternoon that additional security personnel were deployed to secure the capital. “Police and other organized forces are now deployed ahead of the peace celebrations. They are working as joint forces,” he said.
The police officer further said tightened measures were put in place at checkpoints and streets, adding the main roads leading to Juba International Airport and State House will be closed.
“The other roads in Juba are open and parking sites are ready. We have a place for VIP at the national parliament and there are other parking places at Seventh Day and Nyakuron,” he said.
Daniel pointed out that security personnel will screen all citizens who will attend the celebration, urging all residents of Juba to cooperate with the government.
“We call on our people to be patient and to cooperate with the security personnel because there will be security screenings for those who will attend the celebration on Wednesday, “he said.
Last week, South Sudan government invited regional leaders and opposition officials to Juba to celebrate the revitalized peace agreement signed last month to end the conflict.
On Monday, the committee authorized to organize the event briefed President Salva Kiir on its preparation for the peace celebration on Wednesday.
The committee called on all residents of Juba to attend the historic celebration that marks the end of the civil war in South Sudan.