West Darfur governor issues emergency orders to maintain security
September 9, 2016 (EL-GENEINA) – Governor of West Darfur state Fadl al-Mula al-Haga has declared emergency orders to maintain security following a number of killing incidents in recent months.
The newly appointed Governor on Thursday issued a number of local emergency orders aimed to maintain security and save lives.
The first order banned riding of motorcycles within the state’s geographical territory without exception besides banning wearing the Kadamool (turban which covers the face).
The second order banned holding weapons and wearing military uniforms in public places with the exception of the regular forces while carrying out their tasks.
He also ordered the judiciary to set up a special tribunal to look into charges pertaining to the emergency orders, instructing the regular forces to take the necessary measure to implement the orders.
The first order would go into effect after two weeks from the date of issuance while the second order would be implemented immediately upon signing.
Al-Haga stressed his keenness to achieve security and impose the rule of law and justice across the state, saying the prestige of the state can’t be compromised.
He called for launching a media campaign to educate the residents about the contents of the emergency orders and how the community would benefit from it, saying the orders were issued following the use of motorcycles and firearms as means to commit crimes.
The Governor added that 131 charges in which motorcycles were used in crimes have been recently filed, pointing that firearms have been used in 121 crimes including killing, looting and robbery and illegal drug smuggling.
He stressed those who violate the emergency orders will face trial and could be imprisoned and fined and their motorcycles could be confiscated, saying the work of the security organs would be highly coordinated to carry out the emergency orders.
Al-Haga also disclosed they seek to set up courts in all localities to look into the charges in coordination with the state judiciary.
Last May, eight people were killed and four others injured in a retaliatory attack by unidentified gunmen on a mosque in a village located 10 km. east of West Darfur state capital, El-Geneina.
Arms proliferation has become a major cause of instability in Darfur’s five regions as it feeds tribal conflicts and banditry.
Last April, Sudanese President Omer al-Bashir announced the formation of a national body for the collection of illegal arms in Darfur region.
(ST)