Authorities in Torit County in Eastern Equatoria state have ordered security forces to shoot on sight any civilian found carrying a firearm along key highways, in a move aimed at curbing rising violence and robberies.
The directive targets roads linking Hiyalla Payam and the Torit-Kapoeta route, where killings and theft have increased in recent months. The order was announced after a security meeting convened by County Commissioner Lokang Charles to address instability in the area.
Hiyalla Payam has been a hotspot for clashes among local communities.
Participants at the meeting included political leaders, community elders, youth and women’s representatives, and other local figures. The three-hour meeting on Sunday produced several resolutions, including the formation of a committee with five representatives from each village to support peace efforts.
“This committee is to include local MPs and members of the Ministry of Peacebuilding to facilitate peace talks and visits to each village,” said Amato Khanis Khasmir, a participant who took notes during the meeting.
Authorities also ordered an immediate ceasefire between rival communities, specifically between Mura Hatiha and Tirangore villages. Officials warned that any violations would prompt military intervention.
The commissioner said civilians must not carry weapons on highways and warned of severe consequences for those who do, stressing the need to keep roads safe for travelers.
As part of efforts to address criminal activity, the communities involved were instructed to compile and exchange lists of suspected criminals to assist law enforcement.
The resolutions also called for action against hate speech on social media, with officials warning that those inciting violence would be held accountable.
“We will hold individuals accountable for any violations of these resolutions,” the commissioner said.
Lokang said residents must be able to move freely without fear.
“People from Murahatika should travel this route freely, without fear of attack,” he said. “Whether one is going to Tirangore, Hiyalla, or beyond, they should be able to do so without concern.”
Brig. Gen. Mariano Oholong, a commander in the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces in Torit, warned suspected criminals to stop attacks along the roads or face military action.
“We cannot allow our youth to die while others live in peace abroad,” Oholong said, condemning the killings as senseless and driven by cycles of revenge.