Police in Western Bahr el Ghazal state say security measures have been strengthened ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations in the state capital, Wau.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday at police headquarters in Wau, the state police spokesperson, Major Santino Oduol, said a comprehensive security plan had been put in place to ensure public safety during the festive period.
He said security forces would be deployed to churches, markets, public celebration venues, residential areas, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, Wau Airport and other key installations.
“The public is hereby informed that a comprehensive security plan has been put in place to ensure a peaceful and safe celebration of Christmas 2025 and the New Year across Wau town and its surrounding areas,” Major Oduol said.
According to police, the main security operations will run from 23 to 27 December 2025, and again from 31 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. He added that security forces have been on full standby since 15 December.
The deployment involves the South Sudan National Police Service, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) Division Five, National Security, the Prison Service, the Wildlife Service, Civil Defence and other organised forces.
Major Oduol said law enforcement agencies would carry out their duties with respect for human rights, noting that female officers had been assigned to handle searches involving women.
“Search procedures will be conducted professionally and with full respect for human rights,” he said, adding that traffic police would manage road safety to prevent accidents, while criminal investigators and other security units would step up intelligence gathering before and during the celebrations.
He also said a medical emergency team had been formed and was coordinating with the state Ministry of Health.
The police spokesperson urged residents to celebrate peacefully and to cooperate with security personnel if any incidents arise.
“We wish all residents a peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year 2026, and we reassure the public of our full commitment to maintaining safety and stability throughout the festive season,” he said.